HARJOT BAINS DEMANDS UNION POWER MINISTER'S INTERVENTION TO RESTORE NANGAL'S LOST GLORY
Chandigarh, April 19: Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains is the MLA from Sri Anandpur Sahib. He aims to restore Nangal’s lost grandeur. He also wants to improve the life of residents of the town. On Saturday, Bains met with Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar in Chandigarh. He demanded revitalization of Nangal city . This city was built around the iconic Bhakra Nangal Dam.
“Harjot Bains Seeks Central Help to Restore Nangal’s Lost Glory”
Harjot Bains sought the personal intervention of the Union Minister. He aimed to transform Nangal into a model city. It would also become a world-class tourist destination. Harjot Bains proposed several projects. These projects include a comprehensive township redevelopment and the development of a Sutlej Riverfront. He also proposed a scenic railway line as a tourist attraction and the completion of the Anneal Nangal Dam Museum.
Emphasising on the Nangal’s historical significance, Harjot Singh Bains, highlighted its status as a shining example of India’s post-independence progress. He reminisced about its golden era. In the 1960s and 70s, it was celebrated as one of India’s most beautiful towns. It was also one of the most well-planned and vibrant. Its tree-lined avenues, structured layout, and rich cultural life were a source of pride for Punjab and the whole Nation. However, the Education Minister lamented the town’s gradual decline over the years. He stated that it has become a “khandar town.” It is now a mere shadow of its glorious past.
Nangal City ; Bains Unveils Bold Plan to Transform Nangal’s Urban Landscape
Proposing a comprehensive Township Redevelopment, S. Harjot Singh Bains also mentioned that Nangal lacks even basic urban amenities. He pointed out the absence of cinema halls, shopping complexes, and recreational centres, despite the availability of ample vacant land. S. Harjot Singh Bains suggested that leasing a portion of the land transparently and proactively could transform the urban landscape. This could create recreational zones, shopping arcades, urban parks, and employment hubs. It would enhance the quality of life for residents. It would also generate regular revenue for the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB).
Harjot Singh Bains also advocates for the development of the Nangal Lake Riverfront. He highlights the River view Road, adjoining Sadan, as a breathtaking natural vista. This area is currently lying vacant and neglected. He said that transforming this stretch into a world-class riverfront is a priority. It would become a serene promenade with walking tracks, cycling paths, eateries, and cultural spaces. This transformation would attract tourists and provide leisure for locals.
Harjot Singh Bains also proposed a scenic railway line as a tourist attraction. He suggested utilising the old railway line from Nangal to Bhakra Dam. This railway runs through scenic terrain and serves as a major tourist draw. He said that a new glass-roof heritage train would offer a unique experience. Introducing a light rail service along this route put Nangal back on the national tourism map.
Bains Urges Completion of Bhakra Dam Museum, Lease Reform in Nangal”
Seeking the completion of the Bhakra Nangal Dam Museum, Bains highlighted the museum’s long-delayed completion despite multiple foundation stones being laid over the years. Bains stated that the museum, once completed, can serve as a centre of learning and pride. It will showcase India’s engineering marvels and post-independence development history. He called for the Union Power Minister’s personal intervention to ensure that this long-pending dream is finally fulfilled. He said that the iconic Bhakra Nangal Dam, one of India’s greatest infrastructural feats, deserves to be illuminated and beautified. Bains suggested a strategic lighting plan that could turn it into a night-time attraction, similar to iconic dams and riverfronts around the world.
S. Harjot Singh Bains also sought a transparent and modern lease policy for Nangal and underlined the need for a revised lease policy to address the concerns of thousands of families who have been living in Nangal for decades but face constant threats of eviction. He said that a lack of clarity in the lease policy creates unrest and discourages private investment. He advocates for a transparent, humane, and revenue-generating lease policy that would provide security to residents, resolve long-pending legal disputes, and allow BBMB to earn stable rent.
Punjab Education Minister passionately appealed to Manohar Lal Khattar for intervention to revive Nangal, while stating that Nangal doesn’t seek mercy, but rather a revival and a rewrite of its destiny.
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