Ashok Gehlot Critiques Delays in Jodhpur Parking Initiative
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Jaipur, April 4 (NationPress) Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot raised concerns on Saturday regarding the delays faced by a multi-story parking initiative in Jodhpur, criticizing the state government for what he described as a demonstration of the BJP government's "policy of delay and neglect".
In a message shared on his X profile as part of his digital series 'Intezaar Shastra', Gehlot highlighted that the project located on Nai Sadak has come to symbolize a governance style characterized by inaction.
He commented, "A project that should have been finalized years ago continues to be stuck due to the BJP’s lack of foresight. This exemplifies ‘Intezaar Shastra’ in practice," he stated.
The parking structure was envisioned to alleviate traffic congestion and improve parking facilities in the vicinity. It was launched in 2013, with a design to hold 675 vehicles. Approximately 2,317 square meters of land was earmarked for the project, and an allocation of Rs 28 crore was made for its execution. Additionally, a new police control room building was proposed at the location, as the land was under the control of the police department.
Gehlot accused the BJP government of intentionally sidelining this essential public project for five years after assuming power in 2013, neglecting the requirements of the residents of Jodhpur.
Reflecting on the Congress administration, he mentioned, "We revitalized the project in 2018 and, despite the significant disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic during 2020-21, we recommenced work in 2022 with unwavering dedication."
Challenging the current administration, he noted, "The project was initially set for completion by December 2024; however, the BJP is now citing a funding shortfall as a reason to suspend the remaining work, extending the deadline to 2026. Given its present state, it appears improbable that the project will be finalized within this timeframe."
Gehlot also asserted, "Even crucial infrastructure like the police control room has been stalled under the guise of budget constraints, revealing the government's shortcomings in financial management."
He posed a pointed question, "Is the BJP government’s true agenda to deprive the people of Jodhpur of essential services?"
He concluded by reasserting that the ongoing delay signifies "a governance model focused on postponement rather than effective action."