Siliguri, 07th August: The first board meeting of the Siliguri Jalpaiguri Development Authority (SJDA) after the formation of the new state government was held on Friday. The meeting was chaired by Darjeeling District Magistrate Harishanker Panicker.
The meeting was attended by Tourism Minister Shankar Ghosh, Minister of State for Transport and Finance Anandamay Barman, MLA Sikha Chatterjee, along with other elected representatives and officials.
During the meeting, a decision was taken to undertake development projects worth around ₹100 crore after the monsoon season. The projects will include road construction, drainage improvement, drinking water facilities, crematorium renovation and installation of modern lighting systems.
The board also approved proposals for the construction of a commercial complex at Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus, renovation of the SJDA Market and allocation of funds for the bus terminus at Matigara Paribahan Nagar.
The meeting also discussed initiatives to bring Nagrakata and Dhupguri under SJDA’s jurisdiction, publishing details of government land on the official website and resolving issues related to land donors in Kawakhali through legal procedures.
A special audit of SJDA’s financial transactions over the past 15 years was also approved. A special audit and administrative investigation committee will examine allegations of financial irregularities of around ₹200 crore, irregularities in flat allotments and illegal constructions in eco-sensitive zones.
Tourism Minister Shankar Ghosh said that there would be no compromise on corruption and strict legal action would be taken against those found guilty. He added that an impartial investigation under the supervision of a retired judge may also be conducted if required.