Development of cities is synonymous with development of the state, benefits of schemes should reach the last person – Mrs. Sangeeta R.

Raipur. May 14, 2026. Secretary of the Urban Administration and Development Department, Mrs. Sangeeta R., today held a video conference with departmental officials, municipal corporation commissioners, chief municipal officers, nodal officers and officials of all 194 urban bodies of the state and directed them to give top priority to good governance, accountability, public service and effective implementation of schemes. For the first time, the entire staff of all municipal corporations, municipalities and town councils of the state attended this meeting together.

Secretary of the Urban Administration Department, Mrs. Sangeeta R., stated at the meeting that urban bodies are the face of the state government, and urban development is synonymous with the state's development. Providing citizens with pure drinking water, a clean environment, improved basic amenities, and a garbage-free city is the primary responsibility of urban bodies. She stated clearly that the government has adequate resources available for implementing plans, and therefore, negligence, irregularities, or unnecessary excuses will not be tolerated.

The Secretary directed all officials to develop clear action plans to address the problems of their respective municipal bodies. Identify local problems and ensure timely resolution, and effectively implement plans on the ground. He emphasized that no officer's hard work should go to waste, and that results should be visible in every municipal body.

Special emphasis on respect for public representatives and better coordination

Secretary Mrs. Sangeeta R. laid down a "rule of thumb" for officials, stating that respect for the Mayor, Chairman, and public representatives should be a top priority. Under no circumstances will misbehavior or abusive language toward public representatives be tolerated. She emphasized that administrative officials have every right to act independently within the rules, but maintaining good behavior with public representatives and citizens is essential.

He said that officers and bodies performing good work will be honored, while strict action will be taken against those found negligent or engaging in wrongdoing. The Secretary gave a clear message to officers, saying that if an officer is acting correctly and in accordance with the rules, the department will stand by them under all circumstances.

Nodal officers given the role of a guide

At the meeting, the Secretary instructed the newly appointed nodal officers to play a guiding role. He stated that the nodal officers would regularly inspect urban bodies, review plans, and coordinate and provide support and guidance to the bodies. Instructions were also given to assign ward-wise responsibilities to officers at the municipal level, ensuring monitoring and accountability of work.

He said that division-wise video conferencing will be organised every week and the progress of development works will be assessed by holding departmental review meetings every month.

Special focus on cleanliness and solid waste management

Secretary Mrs. Sangeeta R. stated that solid waste management is not just the government's responsibility, but the personal responsibility of every official and citizen. She directed the separation of wet and dry waste, scientific waste management, and improved sanitation. She stated that any negligence in sanitation work would not be tolerated. She directed officials to carefully study the new waste management rules and ensure their effective implementation.