Clean & green Patna is my dream: Mayor Sita Sahu

PATNA: Sita Sahu is not a selected, but an elected mayor of Patna now as she won the first direct election for the post by securing more than 1.2 lakh votes. Sahu tells TOI's Faryal Rumi that she will continue to work for all-round development in the city. Excerpts from the interview:
How does it feel to win the election?
Some people were saying that I would lose the first direct election for the post of mayor. However, I have proved them wrong. People of Patna have reposed their faith in me and I have additional responsibilities now. This election was indeed important for me because it showed that people liked my work
How do you look back on your 5-year term?
It was very challenging. With the hard work of all stakeholders, we made this city garbage-free. Apart from this, more than 4,200 drainage lines have been made, 82,000 street lights installed, water supply ensured in every household, 80 parks were beautified, 22 temporary drainage pumping stations installed to avoid waterlogging in low-lying areas, state-of-the-art machines and equipment were procured for sanitation work and beautification of Adalatganj Pond was also done
What are your future plans for Patna?
I have prepared the road map for development. The idea is to make the city smart, clean and green in next five years. First, I will ensure 100% disposal of legacy waste from the landfill site at Ramachak Bairiya, segregation of dry and wet waste and installation of electric crematorium at ghats. Mohalla health clinics will come up in all the 75 wards, smart classes will be conducted in government schools under the PMC limits and houses will good quality water. I will also work for opening of three malls at Arya Kumar Road, Bhanwar Pokhar and Rajendra Nagar. People will also get rid of open drains
Your message for the people of Patna
I want to thank the people of Patna for their support and trust. I will work for all sections of the society and fulfil all the promises that I have made to them.