Korba, Chhattisgarh | Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao strongly responded to criticism from former minister Jaisingh Agrawal during his day-long visit to Korba, stating that the former minister should first “reflect on his own tenure” before questioning the current government’s development efforts.
The remarks came after Agrawal criticized the district administration over traffic congestion and the poor condition of roads in Korba.
Arun Sao Responds to Opposition Criticism
Addressing reporters, Arun Sao said that the previous administration should evaluate its own performance before making allegations.
“Mr. Jaisingh Agrawal should first undertake an introspection of his own tenure. Even the city’s Mayor belonged to his family. We are continuously visiting Korba and working for the development of not only this district but the entire state of Chhattisgarh,” Sao said.
He added that he remains in regular contact with government officials and is closely monitoring the implementation of infrastructure and public welfare projects.
Development Projects Worth Over ₹73 Crore Inaugurated
During his visit, the Deputy Chief Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects valued at more than ₹73 crore.
Among the major initiatives were:
- Inauguration of the long-awaited Multi-Level Parking Facility on the Sunalia Canal Road.
- Foundation stone laying for the Dr. Syama Prasad Mukherjee Complex.
- Participation in a Prime Minister Awas Yojana (PMAY) housewarming ceremony for beneficiaries.
- Launch of several urban infrastructure and public utility projects across Korba.
Major Infrastructure Projects
The newly announced projects include:
- A high-level bridge and approach road over Belgari Nala on the Darri Barrage–Kohadiya Road, costing approximately ₹9.11 crore.
- Another high-level bridge over Gurma Nala on the Kudmura–Shyang Road, valued at ₹5.05 crore.
- Construction of a bridge over Lamti Nala on the Lemru–Shyang Road at a cost of around ₹3.74 crore.
- Commercial shops worth ₹90.96 lakh to promote livelihood opportunities.
- CC road construction and widening from BALCO Road (Dhengur Nala Crossing) to the Darri Main Road, costing ₹4.45 crore.
- Multiple drainage and culvert projects in Ward No. 31.
PMAY Beneficiaries Receive New Homes
Speaking at the Prime Minister Awas Yojana event in Dadar Khurd, Sao congratulated beneficiaries who received the keys to their new homes.
He said the event marked not only the handover of houses but also the beginning of new opportunities and improved living conditions for economically weaker families.
Praise for Minister Lakhan Lal Dewangan
Deputy CM Sao praised Industry Minister Lakhan Lal Dewangan for his contribution to Korba’s development.
According to Sao, significant progress has been made in the district over the past two and a half years, with continued financial support from the state government.
Minister Dewangan stated that nearly ₹1,000 crore worth of development projects are currently underway in the district, with several already completed.
National Flag Inaugurated at Ghantaghar Chowk
As part of the visit, the Deputy Chief Minister also inaugurated a giant National Flag installation at Ghantaghar Chowk in Ward No. 27.
Following the flag hoisting ceremony, he described the Indian Tricolor as a symbol of the nation’s pride, dignity, and unity, expressing confidence that it would inspire stronger feelings of patriotism among local residents.
American Perspectives
Michael Turner, an urban infrastructure consultant from Denver, Colorado, said:
“Large-scale investments in roads, bridges, parking facilities, and public housing can significantly improve mobility and quality of life. However, consistent project execution and transparent monitoring are essential for long-term success.”
Jennifer Collins, a public administration researcher from Washington, D.C., commented:
“Political debate is common in democratic governance, but measurable development outcomes and accountability are ultimately what matter most to citizens. Public infrastructure projects should always be evaluated based on their long-term social and economic impact.”
Key Highlights
- Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao criticized former minister Jaisingh Agrawal, urging him to reflect on his own tenure before questioning the current administration.
- The Chhattisgarh government announced and inaugurated development projects worth over ₹73 crore in Korba.
- Key initiatives include a Multi-Level Parking Facility, bridges, road widening, commercial shops, and drainage infrastructure.
- PMAY beneficiaries received the keys to their newly constructed homes.
- Minister Lakhan Lal Dewangan stated that nearly ₹1,000 crore worth of projects are currently in progress across the district.
- A giant Indian National Flag was inaugurated at Ghantaghar Chowk, highlighting themes of national pride and patriotism.
