Collector focusing on additional infra
With the citizens of Coimbatore worried about the haphazard growth of the district and waiting with bated breath for various developments, District Collector Neeraj Mittal’s main focus for the current year is provision of adequate additional infrastructure.“Last year, infrastructure and economic development in terms of getting Coimbatore as an IT hub and a favourable destination for investment was our main objective.”Of course, it was then the allotment of Rs. 3,000 crore through the Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission for the development of Coimbatore corporation crystallised. Mr. Mittal is happy that six-laning of the Avanashi Road has been progressing without any ruckus though it did involve demolition or removal of various structures. “Declogging of the Avanashi and Nanjundapuram roads are also some important achievements”.During the current year, he wants to focus on ring roads development. A 100 ft road connecting Mettupalayam Road and Palakkad road is planned. Apart from widening the Hope College Bridge, it is planned to have in total eight lanes from there so that those visiting the IT Park will have seamless access to it. The Collector is certain that the upcoming IT Park would generate employment for about 50,000 persons. “Of course, expansion of the airport is also a priority” to attract foreign tourists.He is happy to point out some of the initiatives involving public contribution. For instance, for the Coimbatore Medical college Hospital and the Government Hospital at Pollachi, the public are contributing about Rs. 1 crore. Besides, with the help of the public Tirupur Hospital will be improved at a cost of Rs two crores to three crores.
Referring to some of the special initiatives taken, he points out that incinerators will be established in all the girls higher secondary schools. Besides all the schools will have toilets. Five panchayats have been identified for a pilot project for solid waste management. In addition, under the “ecosam” project, 300 toilets would be constructed with the help of Siruthuli.On the employment front also, some important steps have been taken.“Last year we gave training to youth in CNC lathe, apparel and fashion designing. This year, in co-ordination with Desicrew.com, BPO training will given to youths at Palladam.” This will help these persons set up BPOs in their own villages.
