Despite a state government directive to establish six libraries in each of the 13 constituencies of the district, the municipal corporation (MC) has not yet constructed a single library. Last year, ₹64 lakh was allocated per constituency for this initiative. In November, the chief minister’s office instructed deputy commissioners to ensure the libraries' establishment, with block development and panchayat officers responsible for rural constituencies.
However, the project has faced delays due to multiple failed tendering attempts, with officials citing a lack of released funds from the state. Recently, the civic body met with relevant authorities to discuss library construction in the city.
Plans for the libraries include various constituencies such as Gill, Jagraon, Khanna, Atam Nagar, and several areas in Ludhiana. Similar projects are also anticipated in other districts. MC officials noted they received design documents for a model library built in Sangrur for ₹35 lakh, which will guide the new libraries. The state has directed authorities to tailor the library designs to fit the available space and needs of each constituency.
Sites for the libraries have been identified in urban Ludhiana, with three planned for the West constituency, three for the North, and two for Atam Nagar. Further site identification is ongoing. Superintending engineer Sanjay Kanwar stated, “We have already started the tendering process for these libraries, and construction will commence as soon as the tenders are awarded.”
The ongoing delays have frustrated residents, who are eagerly anticipating these libraries as vital community resources.
Source:https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/ludhiana-11-months-on-work-on-libraries-yet-to-begin-101727023175646.html
