1. New Environment Panel Convenes on Pollution & Sustainability
Chandigarh's Environment Standing Committee held its first meeting at Paryavaran Bhawan, focusing on air and water pollution, solid and biomedical waste, sewage treatment, and curbing single-use plastics. The committee endorsed sustainable practices like rainwater harvesting, recharge wells, and energy-efficient technologies. The meeting was chaired by former Haryana Assembly Speaker Gian Chand Gupta.
Citizen platform Jan Hetashi welcomed the move and urged speedy public-awareness campaigns and stronger enforcement to uphold sustainability goals.
- Real-Time Dust Control to Tackle Air Pollution
Under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), Chandigarh has begun real-time monitoring of dust control machinery—anti-smog guns, sprinklers, and GPS-enabled sweeping vehicles. These devices, bought at ₹8 crore, will log routes, water usage, and operational data. Daily sprinkling and geotagged waste disposal are key to improving air quality and securing future NCAP funding.
Jan Hetashi has endorsed these measures and urged the public to report malfunctions or misuse via its environmental helpline.
- Drainage Trackers: MC to Map Problem Zones
Following recurring monsoon flooding complaints, the Municipal Corporation (MC) has instructed officials to map drainage hotspots, implement preventive maintenance with jetting and suction machines, and oversee workflow at ground level. The initiative is expected to curb sewer blockages and improve stormwater response during heavy downpours.
Jan Hetashi activists have been urging faster action, especially in sectors prone to waterlogging like Industrial Area Phase 2 and Sector 45.
- Traffic Relief Plans for NH‑5 Stretch
To ease traffic congestion on NH-5, experts have proposed a ₹240 crore flyover near Sectors 29/31 and the Industrial Area. A consultant will now conduct a six- to eight-month study on whether a flyover or underpass is more compatible with Chandigarh's master plan against elevated structures.
Jan Hetashi has echoed demands for retaining heritage sensitivity in infrastructure planning and minimum disruption to local communities.
- Legal Updates: HC Orders & Court Directions
- The Punjab and Haryana High Court ordered accused fraudster Gagandeep Singh to deposit his passport upon return from Dubai and stay out of jail during mediation with Navjot Kaur Sidhu—allegedly cheated of ₹10.35 crore in real estate transactions. The next mediation hearing is set for August 12.
- In another ruling, the High Court reinstated several Haryana Police sub-inspectors who had served over five years, declaring their termination unjust and recommending supernumerary posts instead of displacement.
- Plogging Drive Invokes Civic Duty
The Municipal Corporation launched a 10-day zero-waste plogging drive at New Lake, Sector 42. Around 200 schoolchildren participated, committing to the “Swachh Yuva Doot” pledge while collecting litter. MCC officials praised the youth-led effort as a symbol of community-driven environmental awareness.
Jan Hetashi coordinated with local schools and supported the initiative, promoting regular waste cleanups across Chandigarh.
- Safety Reforms: Schools to Report Incidents Within 24 Hours
In a major policy update, all schools in Chandigarh (government, aided, private) must now report safety incidents—structural hazards, near-misses, psychological concerns—within 24 hours, and complete comprehensive audits by August 30. Reports will be compiled by September 10, and non-compliance will incur strict action.
Jan Hetashi has offered to help parents and PTAs understand these new rules and ensure transparency in the process.
- Weather Outlook: Rain Alert in Effect
The India Meteorological Department has issued a heavy‑rain alert for Chandigarh between August 4–6, warning of potential waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and risks to weak structures. Residents were urged to avoid low-lying zones and unsafe outdoor settings during thunderstorms.
In light of this alert, Jan Hetashi has disseminated safety messages via WhatsApp and local groups advising umbrellas, safe travel, and caution near drains.
- Security Incident in Mohali-Aligned Kharar Village
In a disturbing incident in Tole Majra, Kharar, unidentified individuals opened fire at a private residence at 2:46 am—bullets struck the gate, a cooler, and a parked car. No injuries were reported. The police have registered an FIR under the Arms Act and are investigating via CCTV footage and witness interviews .
Jan Hetashi issued an urgent appeal, calling for increased patrolling and installation of street‑level CCTV in vulnerable zones.
- Chandigarh Tops in Electric Mobility
Chandigarh was ranked among India's leaders in the inaugural India Electric Mobility Index by NITI Aayog, thanks to strong policy execution and EV adoption. The city also logged an 18-fold rise in installed solar power capacity over the past decade, with government rooftops adding thousands of new installations and a new 4 MW floating solar plant launching in Sector 39
Jan Hetashi is organizing EV roadshows and solar-awareness workshops to encourage further public involvement in the renewables transition.
Conclusion
From legal verdicts and environmental committees to safety campaigns and rainfall alerts, August 5, 2025 has flown past with important developments shaping Chandigarh's governance, public safety, and civic engagement. Citizen-led groups like Jan Hetashi continue to play a vital role—bridging the gap between policy and people, and ensuring the city stays both responsible and responsive.
Stay tuned to Live Chandigarh News for further updates across the day.
