SBM-U2.0 coordination meeting cum training on CSAP and CSWAP plan implementation, strategies formulation, and mobilization of SBM Projects for 39 ULBs was held at Conference Hall Urban Development Directorate with Advisor Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, Zhaleo Rio on 5th May 2023.

Addressing the gathering, the Advisor said he was privileged to attend the meeting and the training programme as it was a very important meeting for the Administrators concerning the Urban Local Bodies of the state. He requested the Administrators present to take this opportunity to acquaint themselves with the challenges as they are the ones who implement the schemes of the department. He also expected that the administrative officers will give their best in the management and maintenance of the Urban Local Bodies. The Advisor mentioned that earlier there were only 19 ULBs but now there are 39 ULBs and the funds received from the ministry are only for the previous 19 ULBs and the department is allocating the share to all the 39 ULBs.

The Government is discussing how to provide facilities and amenities to the ULBs, as some ULBs are generating revenues and some are not and it was discouraging to note that the revenue generated cannot provide salaries to the employees.

Zhaleo sought to know the staff strengths of all the ULBs and said that bigger towns with a sizeable population that is generating revenue should perform better, he encouraged the Administrators to intervene and give personal interests and take initiatives in implementing the schemes and step by step they can improve revenue and provide facilities and amenities to the citizens. He further said if the Administrators work seriously, the department will allocate resources and if they perform they will be funded.

The Advisor said that the department is also exploring whether to go for a labor contract which will be further discussed. Whenever funds are provided the Administrators should provide action plans like various requirements for sold or liquid wastes management and they should further discuss with their respective local MLAs.

The Advisor also said that there are funds constrain as the ULB elections are not held in the state and that the government is sincere on the issue and will rewrite the Municipal Act with the cooperation of the Naga Public and that the elections will be held sooner or later but the ULB Administrators should continue to work for citizens.

Regarding the construction of Public Parks, the Advisor advised the programme officers to identify sites and that the land should be free of all incumbencies and proper documents should be there even if it’s donated or purchased, and should have proper MOUs so that no problem arises in the future.

Zhaleo mentioned the Monsoon Preparedness meeting with the Chief Minister and advised the Administrators to take preventive measures in advance for any impending dangers.

Earlier, an introductory note was given by Elizabeth Ngully, Additional Secretary and Mission Director of Swachh Bharat Mission Urban.

The later sessions were SWM Methods and Technologies, discussion for finalization of Technology for DPR preparations, and UWM Methods and Technologies.

(Avika Awomi, IA)