mayors statement 2012 2013 full budget estimate

8/10/2019 Mayors Statement 2012 2013 Full Budget Estimate

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1.2 I like to mention here again that during preparation of Budget

Estimate for the year 2012-2013 of Siliguri Municipal Corporation,

emphasis has been given for need base development of Siliguri

keeping in mind the trend of urbanization of this town as we arecommitted to the people of Siliguri to develop Siliguri Municipal

Corporation as a people oriented strong organization and which will

take various developmental activities in greater public interest.

1.3 You are aware that worldwide economic crisis has influenced our

economy to some extent and as a result of which prices of essential

commodities have been increased in the current financial year and

project cost of different schemes have been increased considerably

and expenditure of Siliguri Municipal Corporation has beenincreased in many folds. In spite of that we have to combat the

situation with the assistance of both Central and State Govt. in the

next financial year.

2.0 Siliguri being the gateway of North-East India has developed as the

most important town in West Bengal and attained an important

position in respect of Trade and Commerce and tourist traffic. You

are also aware that Siliguri hosts over several lacs of domestic and

thousands foreign visitors annually. It has also emerged as base foressential supplies to the North-East Region, specially Bhutan,

Nepal and Bangladesh. In order to develop such a growing town we

seek co-operation from Central Govt., State Govt., Honble

Councillors, Officers and employees of this Corporation and also

from the people in General to render better civic amenities to the

people and in this regard I do submit the following proposals :-

2.1 It was stated in the Budget proposal for the year 2011-2012 that

more emphasis would be given for restructuring of Tax andrealization of arrear dues and I am happy to announce that in the

current year we have been able to raise more revenue through

collection of arrear tax & interim assessment of holdings having

scope of increase of yearly revenue from Property Tax amounting

to Rs. 68,34,230/- per year. Ad-interim assessment of Property Tax

of the unassessed holdings within SMC area would be continued in

the next year 2012-2013 too.

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2.2 I like to reiterate that the developmental activities which has beentaken up in the current year 2011-2012 and not yet completed


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would be completed. In this connection I like to mention that

formation of Ward Committees in all the wards of Siliguri

Municipal Corporation has been completed and almost all the

Statutory Committees and Special Committees have been formedduring the financial year 2011-2012.

2.3 I would also like to mention that improvement of infrastructure and

socio-economic development of the area which are comparatively

less developed would also be continued and necessary fund has

been allotted for the year 2012-2013.

2.4 I also like to mention that initiative shall also be taken up for up-

gradation of schools from primary section and establishment of

more Bengali, Hindi & Nepali medium schools & colleges withinSMC area.

2.5 We welcome the decision of the State Govt. and Honble Chief

Minister Smt. Mamata Banerjee for setting up of Secretariat of

North Bengal Development Department at Siliguri and do hope that

outright development of the entire North Bengal would be

implemented through this Secretariat.

We further welcome the decision for setting of Mini Mahakaran

at Siliguri by the State Govt.2.6 In the Budget proposal for the year 2011-2012 it was stated that due

importance would be given for supply of drinking water in the

uncovered areas of Siliguri Municipal Corporation and I am happy

to mention that the matter has been reflected in the Budget proposal

of the Govt. of West Bengal for the year 2012-2013.

2.7 I would also assure that improvement, maintenance & construction

of new roads, bridges, culverts & drain within SMC area would also

be taken up as per need base and on priority basis.

2.8 Extension of street phases within SMC area during the financial

year 2011-2012 has been taken up & I am glad to mention that

20 Km of street phase has been extended in the year 2011-2012 &

remaining portion would be completed in the next financial year

2012-2013.

~ 3 ~

2.9 Some playgrounds and parks have already been illuminated and

others have been identified for illumination in the next financial

year 2012-2013 and fitting & fixing of modern equipments for

street lighting would be given priority in the next financial year


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2012-2013. Solar system will be introduced for lighting and other

purpose as per availability of fund.

2.10 Sports activities in Siliguri have been improved much. Endeavour

for extension of facilities for sports & games within SiliguriMunicipal Corporation area would be continued.

2.11 Developmental activities for improvement of the living condition of

slum dwellers would be continued with utmost priority.

2.12 Financial assistance for social welfare programme from Siliguri

Municipal Corporation end will be continued like previous year.

2.13 Special emphasis would be given for health care programme to

cover economically weaker families living within SMC area along

with BPL families.

2.14 Due importance would be given for literacy programme.

2.15 Civil Administration would be requested to develop the traffic

management system in Siliguri town. We also welcome the

announcement made by the State Govt. for creation of the post of

Police Commissionerate for Siliguri.

2.16 Ward Utsav in almost all the wards have been organized in the year

2011-2012 with a view to develop healthy cultural & sports

atmosphere and encourage the talent of local artists & players & the

same would be continued in the next year 2012-2013 with active

participation and support of the people of Siliguri.

2.17 Like previous year emphasis would be given to make Siliguri free

of pollution and necessary measure would be taken from

Corporation end.

~ 4 ~

2.18 Decentralization of Municipal function at Borough level is our

commitment. Collection of Property Tax, Water Tax, monitoringof defaulters, passing of building plans up to certain specification,

sanitation, maintenance of street light and garbage cleaning is being

done through Borough office. In the current financial year we have

been able to make necessary arrangement for issuance of Death

Certificate from Burning Ghat. Issuance of Trade License & Birth

Certificate from Borough offices is in our agenda. I do hope that we

would be able to do the same in the financial year 2012-2013. Apart

from this xerox machine and water purifier would be provided to

each Borough offices and contingency of Borough offices would be

increased from Rs. 5,000/- to Rs. 8,000/- per month from the year


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2012-2013. And necessary Budget provision has been made for the

purpose.

2.19 You are aware that Public Grievance Cellin Siliguri Municipal

Corporation office is set up for lodging grievance for the benefit ofthe people in general and the cell is functioning. The service is

available online and offline. The facility would be extended at

Borough level for the financial year 2012-2013.

2.20 Stress would be given for implementation for various Self-

Employment programmes for unemployed youths and it is proposed

that the facility be extended for the women belonging to the

economically weaker section by imparting training from

Corporation end.2.21 Implementation of Solid Waste Management programme in all the

remaining wards during the year 2011-2012 was in our agenda. I

like to mention that the said programme has not yet been completed

in 2/3 wards and respective ward Councillors are requested to take

initiative in the matter.

2.22 In order to ensure transparent and effective Municipal services,

implementation of e-Governance in Siliguri Municipal

Corporation will be taken up with financial assistance of StateGovt. and as a part of the programme we have been able to

implement the same in respect of issuance of Birth & Death

Certificate and renewal of Trade License within this budget period

and other important issues like on line payment of P.Tax, passing

of building plan, tendering etc. will be taken up phase wise. In the

meantime installation of software has been completed and

e-Governance would be started full-fledged after imparting

training.

~ 5 ~

2.23 World Environment Daywas observed on 5th

June, 2011 from

SMC end with a view to keep the environment of Siliguri free from

pollution through plantation of trees. Other measures have also

been taken to prevent water, air & noise pollution. You are aware

that use of plastic carry bags within SMC area has been banned

since the year 2010 in true sense. Emphasis is being given to stop

production, store and sale of all banned plastic materials and

printing thereon as per law. In case of any violation penal measure

will be taken.


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2.24 I would also like to mention that emphasis would be given for

development of industries, Trade & Commercial activities and

tourism as well as for micro and small industries and handicrafts.

2.25 You are aware that a Disaster Management Team has been formedwith a view to combat the natural calamities. A severe earthquake

happened in September 2011 in North-Eastern India. People of

Sikkim & Darjeeling were very much affected and death toll raised

to more than one hundred. People of Siliguri Municipal area also

witnessed the said calamity with death toll, injuries to persons and

damages of private/public and Govt. properties, educational

institutes, buildings, roads, culverts etc. I convey my thanks to the

Govt. of West Bengal for sanctioning of Rs. 1 crore forinfrastructural Development of Siliguri due to earthquake. Apart

from the said amount, both Govt. of West Bengal and Central Govt.

have sanctioned separately Rs. 2 lacs to the family members of each

deceased and for repairing of residential premises of the earthquake

affected people residing within SMC area. SMC received a sum of

Rs. 4.52 crores. Injured persons were compensated @ Rs. 50,000/-

or Rs. 25,000/- as per gravity of injuries. Sri Goutam Deb, Minister-

in-Charge, North Bengal Development Department, Govt. of WestBengal also took initiative to meet expenses of treatment of the

injured admitted in Nursing homes & hospitals. We convey our

thanks to both the Govt. & Sri Goutam Deb. SMC will further pray

for compensation before both the Govt. for affected educational

institution and Govt. offices, list whereof is already sent. In the

meantime list of beneficiaries for repairing of residential houses has

been prepared with active co-

operation of the Councillors, Officers and staff of SMC anddisbursement of fund received so far would be made within this

financial year 2011-2012. A table in this regard is given below for

your perusal :-

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Sl. No.No. of

beneficiariesArea

Amount to be

disbursed (in Rs.)

1. 6093Wards within the District of

Darjeeling2,89,19,500/-

2. 3512 Wards within the District ofJalpaiguri

1,69,35,000/-


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I further convey my thanks to both the Central and State Govt. for

their assistance for the earthquake victims.

2.26 In the year 2010-2011 the proposal for inclusion of Siliguri in

JNNURM project was forwarded to the Central Govt. through StateGovt. But it has been informed that it would not be possible on the

part of the Central Govt. to include SMC under JNNURM project

for some technical reason. However, it has been learnt that the

Union Govt. has decided to launch the project JNNURM 2nd

Phase

for small towns. It is expected that Siliguri would be included in the

2nd

Phase of JNNURM and a formal proposal would be forwarded

to the Central Govt. through the State Govt.

2.27 As decided in the last budget meeting for the year 2011-2012 thatinitiative would be taken to secure title of land to the existing

dwellers as per Govt. norms.

2.28 Initiative would be taken for issuance of holding nos. to the

inhabitants residing at Railway land in SMC area.

2.29 We have already taken necessary measure for upliftment of the

living standard of the people belonging to the weaker section of the

society by implementation of various schemes of Central & State

Govt. viz. IHSDP, SJSRY, AAY, IGNOAPS, IGNWPS, IGNDPSand NFBS, Annapurna Yojana, National Health programme etc. I

would like to mention that the same would also be continued in the

next year 2012-2013 with due diligence.

3.1 Integrated Housing and Slum Development Programme (IHSDP):-

The Siliguri Municipal Corporation has taken up the scheme since

the year 2007-2008 with a view to provide Healthy Home for the

slum dwellers residing within SMC area. The component of works

under the scheme are construction of dwelling houses, roads &drinking water supply, electrification, community centre,

construction of community bath & toilet etc. the work is being

implemented in 3 phases.

A Salient feature of those schemes is given below:-

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Description

of the

Phase

Sanctioned

Amount

(Rs.)

Date of

Sanction

No. of

Dwelling

Units

Time Limit for

implementation

Progress

of the

Work

1stPhase 36.82 crores 31-03-2007 1998 2009-2010 72%

2nd

Phase 19.99 crores 12-05-2008 1206 2010-2011 72%3

rdPhase 35.98 crores 19-01-2009 1859 2011-2012 23%


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An elaborate discussion has been made with representatives of

SUDA for funding and early completion of the project. I hope to

complete the project within a short period.

3.2 Social Welfare Scheme:-

In the Budget speech for the year 2011-2012, I have already

mentioned that the disbursement of Old Age Pension to the

beneficiaries through their respective Bank A/c or Post Office A/c

has been started from the year 2010-2011 with active co-operation

of the Councillors & I am happy to mention that the same is

continuing & a table showing the number of beneficiaries under

various Social Welfare Scheme during the year 2011-2012 is given

below.Sl. No. Name of the Scheme

Number of

BeneficiariesRemarks

1. IGNOAPS 3757 Paid upto Dec11

2. IGNWPS 1651 Do

3. IGNDPS 60 Do

4. NFBS 81Pending since June

2010 in SUDA

5.Antyodaya Anna

Yojana6038 family In force

6. Annapurna Yojana 224 In force

Apartfrom above the social package of SMC out of Corporations

own fund will also be continued as per the year 2011-2012 with

enhancement of some numbers of beneficiaries and amount of

pension.

The same provision shall remain in force for the year 2012-2013

with some addition. The persons benefitted are as under.

No. of beneficiariesSl.No.

Name of theScheme

Category ofbeneficiaries

Rate ofassistance

per monthPresent Proposed

IncreasedAmount

2012-2013

1.

Financial

Assistance to

the Old Aged

Person

Financial

Assistance to

the support

less person

above 60

years

Rs. 350/- 1500 1500

Rs. 50/-

per head /

month

2.

Financial

Assistance for

widow

Rs. 350/- 750 850

Rs. 50/-

per head /

month

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No. of beneficiariesSl.

No.

Name of the

Scheme

Category of

beneficiaries

Rate of

assistance

per monthPresent Proposed

Increased

Amount

2012-2013

3.

Financial

Assistance tothe Physically

handicapped

and mentally

retarded person

Rs. 350/- 600 650Rs. 50/-

per head /

month

4.Distribution of

Rice

10 kgs per

month2500 2500

I feel that the no. of beneficiaries and the amount to be paid as

mentioned above are not sufficient, but our limited financial ability

has stopped me for the present to enhance the no. of beneficiaries

and the amount of financial assistance.

Besides these necessary Budget Provision of Rs. 20 lacs has been

made for the year 2012-2013 in Mayors Discretionary Fund for

extending financial assistance for the purpose of Health, Education

and Relief for natural calamity affected persons. It is to be noted

that during the year 2011-2012 financial assistance has been given

out of Mayors Discretionary Fund as given below :-

Sl. No. Purpose No. of beneficiaries1. Education 19

2. Treatment 35

3. Relief 11

3.2a. In this connection I like to mention that Socio-Economic & Caste

Census 2011 is going on and likely to be completed by April,

2012 and future allocation of different schemes related to BPL

families be extended as per outcome of survey.

3.3 Special Initiative for Women:-3.3i) Like previous year emphasis would be given for various income

generating scheme specially for women. In the year 2010-2011

vocational training was given to 30 women in different trade. In this

connection I like to point out that 1550 unemployed youths would

be imparted training during the year 2012-2013 in different

vocational course and necessary steps in this regard has already

been taken & whole matter is under process.

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3.3ii) I would also like to mention that special emphasis would be givento improve the scope of women in various income generating


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scheme for self-employment. SMC will also extend financial

assistance for treatment of female disease and the pregnant mothers

belonging to the weaker section of the society.

3.3iii) SMC will stand by & support the women against the social injustice

in & outside the family & will provide free legal & other assistance

with the help of NGO & North Bengal University, Law College and

Indian Institute of legal studies, Darjeeling. I like to submit that

SMC has provided its premises adjacent to Indoor Stadium for

establishment of CBI Court at Siliguri on rental basis & it is

expected that the proposed court will start to function from

1stApril, 2012 in the next financial year 2012-2013.

3.3iv) Setting up of Govt. Home for supportless :-

In the Budget proposal for the year 2011-2012 proposal for setting

up of a Govt. Home for the supportless & victims of women

atrocities was reiterated but the proposal could not be implemented

due to non-availability of suitable land and also for paucity of fund.

However, I will render serious effort so that the proposal may be

materialized after availability of fund in the year 2012-2013.

3.4 Special Scheme for Supportless Children:-I have already mentioned that after the adoption of Budget

Estimates for the year 2011-2012 we got a time of only 6/7 months

as a result of which it has not been possible from our end to move

to the State Govt. for setting up of orphanage for at least 100

orphans and destitute children to provide safe shelter and

arrangement of vocational training for them with definite project.

State Govt. will be moved for the purpose. Suitable premises have

to be identified in secured area.3.5 Socio-economic development:-

The proposal for carrying out a detailed survey by a renowned

planning and financial organization for preparing a Master Plan of

Siliguri focusing on Socio-Economic Development is in our agenda

and I do expect that we would be able to do the job in the next

financial year 2012-2013.

3.6 Housing for the Urban Poor:-

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The scheme was introduced by the Govt. of West Bengal since theyear 2009-2010 for construction of dwelling units for urban poor


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who have not been included in IHSDP scheme. In the current

financial year we have received Rs.1 crore so far and out of

sanctioned sum of Rs. 1 crore the same has been distributed to the

beneficiaries in all 47 wards and UC has been sent thereof. It isexpected that we shall get further Rs. 1 crore in the year 2012-2013.

3.7 Swarna Jayanti Sahari Rojgar Yojona (SJSRY):-

Since the year 1997, the scheme is being introduced in Siliguri

Municipal Corporation area with a view to form Self-Help Group

among the women under BPL family for the purpose of income

generation & empowerment of the women. Siliguri Municipal

Corporation has taken all possible steps for implementation of the

schemes. Since its inception 898 nos. of Thrift & Credit Groups

have been constituted so far. The scheme is being implemented as

per guideline of the Govt. through NHG, NHC & CDS. At present

16556 women are involved in Thrift & Credit Groups.

In the Budget proposal for the year 2012-2013, necessary fund has

been allotted to extend assistance to community structure, subsidy

for Micro enterprises, training & workshop, vocational training,

Revolving fund for Thrift & Credit Groups, subsidy for urban

women, Self-Help programme & infrastructural support forsuccessful implementation of the scheme.

3.8 Basic Minimum Service (BMS):-

The scheme is being taken up in SMC area for last few years for

improvement of roads, drains, electrification and to extend drinking

water facility for the under developed area of SMC. In the year

2010-2011 Rs. 2,09,61,000/- was available. In the Budget proposal

for the year 2012-2013, provision of Rs. 2.20 crores have been

made under the scheme.

3.9 BPL List:-

~ 11 ~

You are aware that there are 22898 BPL families within SMC area.

You are also aware that huge number of families who are

economically weak have not been included in the said list. I have

already pointed out the matter in the Budget estimates for the year

2011-2012 that a further list of 20799 families was sent to SUDA

for inclusion of their names in BPL list. But till date we have not

yet received any response from SUDA inspite of our sincere effort.

I hope that the matter will be finalised soon by SUDA.


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3.10 Rajib Awas Yojona:-

You are aware that Govt. of India announced a new project under

the name & style Rajib Awas Yojona for construction of dwelling

unit and other infrastructural development in slums which have notbeen included in IHSDP. We took initiative to include SMC under

the project. A proposal in this regard has been sent to the Govt. of

India by the State Govt. for inclusion of Siliguri under Rajib Awas

Yojona. I convey my heartfelt thanks to Sri Goutam Deb, Honble

Minister-in-Charge, North Bengal Development Department for his

initiative to include Siliguri under the scheme.

3.11 Underground Sewerage System:-

You are aware that Siliguri Jalpaiguri Development Authority

started the survey regarding the underground sewerage system in

consultation with SMC at the tenure of previous Govt. but survey

could not be materialized.

I have decided to place the matter before the Honble Minister-in-

Charge, Department of Urban Development, Govt. of West Bengal

to include the process of survey under UIDSSMT scheme.

4.1 Own fund of the Corporation or General Fund:-

I am happy to announce that for the general development of the

SMC area various development works would be taken up from

Corporations own fund and a sum of Rs. 5.67 crores has been

proposed for the year 2012-2013. It is to be noted that fund will be

allotted out of General fund for completion of ongoing projects in

different wards of the Corporation. Apart from this priority will also

be given for the development works in the under developed areas of

the Corporation. In this connection I would like to mention that

during the year 2011-2012 the following achievements has been

made in the field of developmental activities of Siliguri Municipal

Corporation.

~ 12 ~

Last year achievements

New Road 15.6 Km

Repair Road 30.5 Km

Road Marking 5.2 Km

New Drain 10.25 KmRepair Drain 5.6 Km


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Last year achievements

Bridge 1 no.

Wooden Bridge 7 nos.

Renovation of Park 10 nos.

Proposal for new development projects

I am also happy to mention that the following proposal has been

forwarded to the Govt. for approval and allotment of fund.

i. Construction of new administrative building at Baghajatin Road,

Siliguri.

ii. Construction of commercial complex and administrative building

(Borough No. III) at Surya Nagar, Dabgram, Colony No. 1 underWard No. 23.

iii. Construction of 2nd

Building Centre at Nowkaghat in Ward No. 31.

iv. We have also decided for construction of welcome gate at 3(three)

different places viz. Darjeeling More, Tinbatti More & Salugara.

4.2 Uttar Banga Unnayan Parishad:-

During the year 2011-2012, a sum of Rs. 40,84,966/- has been

sanctioned by UUP for development works of Siliguri. I do hope

that SMC will receive more fund from the UUP under this head in

the current year and in the Budget proposal for the year 2012-2013,

it has been proposed that SMC will receive Rs. 50 lacs under UUP

Head.

4.3 Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small &

Medium Town (UIDSSMT):-

The project UIDSSMT was taken up by SMC in the year 2007-

2008 at a project cost of Rs. 33.86 crores. In the last year Budget

speech I mentioned that out of 80.775 Km long drain 75 Km of

drain has been completed. A sum of Rs. 5.79 crores was received

by SMC during the year 2010-2011 for completion of the remaining

5.77 Km long drain and the work is in progress.

4.4 Supply of Drinking Water:-

~ 13 ~

You are aware that comprehensive water supply project phase-II

has already been started at a project cost of Rs. 32.97 lacs for the

added areas of SMC comprising 14 wards under Jalpaiguri District.

Construction of OHR near Surya Sen College (under zone 7B) is in

progress. Apart from this construction of OHR under zone 7A


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~ 14 ~

(Saktigarh), 8B (Ghogomali) & 9B (Don Bosco) has already been

completed. Laying 143 km of pipeline at zone 8A, 8B, 9A & 9B

covering ward no. 36 to 44 has been done so that people of those

areas may be benefited from the supply of drinking water under thescheme. Apart from this, work of laying additional pipe line from

ward no. 36 to 44 is almost completed at a project cost of Rs.

1,77,11,453/- and 68.04 km of pipe line has been laid. You are also

aware that the water supply project of zone X (ward no. 45, 46 &

47) started at a project cost of Rs. 13.14 lacs. I am glad to mention

that laying work of main & distribution pipe line for ward no. 45,

46 & 47 under zone x has already been completed and water is

being supplied through street stand posts and a few houseconnection in ward no. 45 & 47. It is to be noted that water supply

in vast area of ward no. 46 could not be possible due to non

completion of the proposed OHR & 3 (three) nos. NH crossing. I

am happy to submit that the construction work of OHR has been

commenced and 2 (two) nos. of NH crossing have been completed

and the 3rd

is in progress. You are aware that present source of

drinking water in SMC area is from Mahananda Barrage pond

where now water comes from Teesta Mahananda Link Canal whichis not dependable due to opening of barrage gates & situation

aggravates during the summer season. As a result of which the

necessity for alternate source of raw water was felt for some time

past & a committee was set by the M.A. Deptt., Govt. of West

Bengal for suggestion on alternate raw water source for Siliguri

Water Supply Project. The committee has submitted the report in

July, 2011. As per the recommendation of the committee, a scheme

of Rs. 176.59 lacs has been considered as best possible redress ofwater need of Siliguri. However at meeting dated 21.08.11 in

presence of Honble MIC (PHE Deptt., Govt. of West Bengal &

Honble MIC, North Bengal Development Deptt., it was decided to

prepare 2 (two) projects, the 1stone for catering to the immediate

need of water supply in SMC area including enroute villages and

the 2nd

one as long term measure for inclusion in VISION 2020

for catering ultimate requirement in SMC and adjoining area.

Accordingly, the present phase-I DPR has been prepared by PHEDeptt. amounting to Rs. 303.94 crores (three hundred three crores

and ninety four lacs). I am happy to mention that the State Govt.


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has also planned to cover additional areas of Siliguri Municipal

Corporation under the piped water supply scheme as reflected in the

budget proposal for the year 2012-2013. Besides this as per DPR of

Siliguri comprehensive water supply project (phase-I) there was aprovision of another storage pond of 472100 M capacity. Recently

the estimate for the said work has been vetted by EE (PHE Deptt.)

and the cost of project would be 8.82 crores.

Another matter which deserves to be mentioned that on account of

location of the water treatment plant of Siliguri Municipal

Corporation at Fulbari (near Indo-Bangladesh Border), there is

possibility of sabotage leading serious health hazard and to avoid

through fare of public in general, we have decided to enclose thesame with boundary wall for which fund has been sought under

BADP scheme. In the current financial year we have received Rs.

24 lacs towards operation and maintenance of Water Supply project

of Siliguri Municipal Corporation. Apart from these we have

already received administrative approval for providing electro

mechanical installation of Zone X under Siliguri Comprehensive

Water Supply Scheme. And I am happy to mention that Govt. of

West Bengal released a sum of Rs. 50 lacs for the purpose on 23rd

March, 2012.

4.5 Schemes under financial assistance of SJDA:-

During the year 2011-2012, Siliguri Jalpaiguri Development

Authority has allotted a sum of Rs. 1,95,14,825/- out of Rs. 7.50

crores receivable by the SMC for different projects within SMC

area.

I do hope that during the year 2012-2013 a sum of Rs. 8 crores

would be available for implementation of various developmentscheme within SMC area.

4.6 Backward Region Grant Fund (BRGF):-

~ 15 ~

You are aware that Jalpaiguri District has been identified as

Backward Region as per Govt. guidelines of BRGF & now the

district has been included under BRGF scheme for various

development works in 14 wards of SMC which are in the district of

Jalpaiguri. Various projects are being implemented since the year

2010-2011. In the year 2011-2012, SMC is in receipt of

Rs. 86,51,577/- against our Budget provision of Rs. 1.25 crores.


16/37

I do hope that in the next financial year 2012-2013, a sum of Rs. 1

crore would be available from BRGF head.

4.7 Central Assistance from 13th

Finance Commission:-

Under this Head of Account Rs. 2,21,15,000/- has been receivedduring the year 2011-2012 as 1

stinstallment. In the Budget estimate

for the year 2012-2013 provision has been made for Rs. 5 crores

under this Head of Account.

4.8 State Finance Commission Fund:-

In the year 2011-2012, Budget provision was made for Rs. 5 crores

and we have received Rs. 2,47,38,500/- so far & it is expected that

balance amount would be released by the State Govt. this year and

now Rs. 5.50 crores has been proposed out of SFC fund during the

year 2012-2013.

4.9 Employment Generation Scheme :-

In order to create mandays through implementation of various

development works, the Govt. of West Bengal has released a sum

of Rs. 1.65 crores during the year 2011-2012 and Rs. 2 crores has

been proposed for the next financial year 2012-2013.

4.10 West Bengal Urban Employment Scheme (WBUES) :-This scheme was announced by the Govt. of West Bengal in the

year 2010-2011 with view to create more employment opportunity

as well as improve the civic infrastructure in urban area by

engaging unemployed person without involvement of contractor. In

the year 2011-2012 a sum of Rs. 2,84,78,500/- has been released by

the Govt. under this head. In the Budget Estimate for the year

2012-2013 Rs. 3 crores has been proposed for implementation of

the schemes under WBUES.

4.11 MP LAD :-

~ 16 ~

In the financial year 2011-2012 we have received Rs. 13.5 lacs

under this head against budget provision of Rs. 50 lacs. I convey

may heartfelt thank to Sri Yashwant Sinha, MP for his kind

allotment of Rs. 10 lacs for the development works of Munshi Prem

Chand college and Sri Saman Pathak, MP for his kind allotment of

Rs. 3.5 lacs for making sitting arrangement of Sr. citizen in ward

no. 02 & other development works within SMC area. In thisconnection I like to mention that we expect that Sri Yashwant

Sinha, MP would also extend financial assistance to SMC out of


17/37

MP-LAD during the year 2012-2013 for the schemes to be

proposed by SMC.

4.12 Bidhayak Elaka Unnayan Prakalpa (BEUP) :-

In the financial year 2011-2012 we have received only Rs. 63,000/-under this head. As Siliguri Municipal Corporation area is spread

over 2(two) Assembly Constituency area so we do hope SMC will

receive more fund out of BEUP fund during the year 2012-2013 &

Rs. 40 lacs has been proposed under BEUP in the Budget estimates

for the year 2012-2013.

I convey my thanks to local MLA and Chairman, SJDA, Dr.

Rudranath Bhattacharya for taking initiative to improve Siliguri

District Hospital by installing generator, neo-natal care unit andincreasing no. of beds etc. Besides these Dr. Rudranath

Bhattacharya has donated an ambulance for Sriniwas Seva Sadan

out of BEUP fund.

4.13 Councillor LAD :-

In the Budget proposal for the year 2012-2013 provision has been

made for Rs. 4 lacs to each Councillor under Councillor LAD like

previous financial year 2011-2012. The details of which is given

below.

Sl.

No.

Particulars Amount

1. Ward Utsav Rs. 1.25 lacs

2. Book Grant, Treatment, Sports,

Development etc.

Rs. 2.75 lacs

Total Rs. 4.00 lacs

4.14 Electrification :-

Electrification of entire Corporation within shortest possible time isour commitment. Out of total no. 24145 erected poles illumination

of 22603 nos. of poles has already been completed. 180 nos. of new

poles have been erected during the year 2011-2012. I do propose

extension of 30 Km street phase within SMC area in the next

financial year. Besides this I do propose for installation of 500

electric poles during the next year 2012-2013. Apart from this in

order to save 30% of annual energy charge the following proposals

are under consideration.

~ 17 ~

i.

Change of Sodium Vapour sets with T-5 base lamps sets & LEDsets.

ii. Installation of solar lighting system in different parks & gardens.


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iii. Installation of CFL type lamp instead of existing Sodium Vapour

lamps.

iv. Installation of timer switch.

Besides this, I do also propose:i.

Installation of High mast (2 nos.) & Mini mast (14 nos.) at different

Traffic points and illumination of 10 nos. playground.

ii. Arrangement of temporary illumination during festivals.

Maintenance of existing street light and garden light in differentparks & gardens will also be continued as before & necessary

Budget provision has been made for the year 2012-2013.

4.15 Development of Parks & Gardens :-

I am happy to mention that Sri Goutam Deb, Honble MIC, North

Bengal Development Deptt., Govt. of West Bengal has announcedthat a new park would be set up in Ward No. 34. He also declared

that Ward No. 31 would be projected as Model Ward. We welcome

the decision and extend our heartfelt thanks for his initiative.

You are aware that there are 37 parks within SMC area and I do

propose for Rs. 35 lacs for renovation and repairing of those parks

and also setting up of new parks on availability of suitable land in

some of the wards.

The matter concerning the beautification of parks and gardens,traffic islands, bifurcation within SMC area by outsourcing is under

our consideration.

5.0 Health Care Service :-

You are aware that SMC renders different health services under the

Central & State Govt. schemes, Matri Sadan at Dabgram Colony,

IPP-VIII (Extn.) project and Sri Niwas Sewa Sadan, organizing

various Health Check-up Camp & distributes medicine to the

outdoor patients free of cost. I can assure the Honble Councillorsthat Siliguri Municipal Corporation will continue the said work in

the next financial year 2012-2013 and necessary Budget provision

has been made to continue Health Check-up camp in each ward @

Rs. 15,000/- per ward i.e. as per the year 2011-2012. You are also

aware that as a part of awareness campaign World Health Day,

World AIDS Day, Cancer Awareness Day also observed in a

befitting manner during the year 2011-2012 & the same would be

continued in the next year too.

~ 18 ~


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I would also like to mention that Sri Goutam Deb, Honble

Minister-in-Charge, North Bengal Development Department, Govt.

of West Bengal has declared for another ambulance equipped with

modern amenities to Siliguri Municipal Corporation out of NBDDfund.

5.1 IPP-VIII (Extn.) Project :-

It is needless to mention that Matri Sadan of Dabgram Colony No.

1 is being run by SMC to render Health services to BPL & APL

patients at a minimum cost by engaging specialist physician. You

are also aware that Ayusmati scheme has been implemented &

patients are treated free of charges under the said scheme.

Engagement of eye specialist and dentist at Matri Sadan, Dabgramis under consideration. Apart from this action would be taken for

construction of a Truss at the roof of the building of Matri Sadan

along with some renovation work. Janani Surakshya scheme is

also running properly.

Apart from the above, the regular immunization programme &

Pulse- Polio programme, Health awareness campaign will also be

continued in the next financial year 2012-2013 & necessary Budget

provision has been made.

5.2 Setting up of a Super Speciality Hospital in Siliguri :-

We have decided to set up a Super Speciality Hospital having at

least 200 beds on the land & partly constructed building of SMC

within SMC area in the nature of PPP model & the proposal was

placed & passed in MIC meeting dt. 12.02.11 & approved in BOC

meeting on 15.02.11 to provide better health services with facilities

of heart surgery, transplantation of kidney, trauma and others to thepeople in general & employees of Corporation, Councillors &

patients of BPL family within SMC area. Corporation will also be

economically benefitted. EOI was invited & Mission Hospital

(Durgapur Medical Centre) has been selected for the purpose

among the bidder agencies & the matter has been sent to Govt. of

West Bengal for approval.

6.0 Improvement of Environment :-

~ 19 ~

I am happy to announce that we have already started spraying ofeco-friendly insecticide at Dumping ground on experimental basis

to control mosquitoes, flies and other harmful insects.


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Initiative has been taken for banning and control of plastic carry

bags & the same is continuing with the help of West Bengal

Pollution Control Board. Measures have also been taken to stop the

production of plastic carry bags within Siliguri MunicipalCorporation area with the active co-operation of FOCIN and other

business organizations. Several meetings were held with business

organization in presence of expert to explain the harmful effect of

plastic in our nature. Leaflets were also distributed and cartoon

characters were placed in different part of this town in festive

seasons for mass awareness on harmful effect of using plastic in our

daily life. Public in general came forward with positive response for

banning plastic carry bags. This measure is a continuous processand invokes moral support from the Councillors of Siliguri

Municipal Corporation and from all corners of the people at large.

Siliguri Municipal Corporation has already awarded 25 different

Eco-friendly Puja Committees and spent a sum of Rs. 1,52,000/-

(One lac fifty two thousand) only and 5 nos. for Eco-friendly

Muharram procession granted Rs. 30,000/- (thirty thousand) only

during Muharram this year. Our expert team will judge the Puja

committees based on environment related parameters likemaximum utilization of eco-friendly materials (lights, earthen

plates etc.), eco-friendly idols, arrangement of dust bins, proper

drainage system, reduction in sound pollution, proper traffic

movement, provision of pure drinking water, use of eco-friendly

plates etc. in the next year 2012-2013 too.

Future Plan:

Apart from this an advertisement to be displayed in an every market

places regarding awareness for banning of plastic carry bags.We have already taken up decision to promote awareness among

the School and College students with the help of active co-

operation of philanthropic organization. Lastly we have received a

major response from the public in General within the Siliguri

Municipal Corporation on this point.

7.0 Development of Industrial Estate:-

~ 20 ~

I do propose for Assessment of holdings and solve the problems of

Property Tax matter of Siliguri Industrial Estate as requested by theentrepreneur of the Industrial Estate in the next financial year


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2012-2013 and seek co-operation of the Councillors and

entrepreneurs.

8.0 Conservancy & Sanitation :-

We have always given priority to render better services to the

citizen of Siliguri in respect of conservancy and sanitation matter

and to make our city clean the following measure have been taken

so far.

I do propose to install another furnace in K.C. Burning Ghat

(Siliguri Municipal Corporation Electric Crematorium) and

renovation work of existing Burning Ghat and construction of

Bathroom during the year 2012-2013.

8.1 Solid Waste Management :-

~ 21 ~

You are aware that Solid Waste are collected from door to door &

the same are finally transported to the dumping ground owned by

SMC near Don Bosco School since the year 1955. The said

dumping ground is being used by SMC for disposal of Solid Waste.

Now the surrounding area has become thickly populated and

demand has been raised for shifting of the same to other place &

considering the demand of the local public an alternate land wasprocured at Putimari (under Mouja Fulbari) a few years ago but no

project could be taken. In the Budget proposal for the year

2011-2012, it was pointed out that initiative has been taken from

Corporation end for utilization of Solid Waste of the Trenching

ground in Pyromax process preferably to generate electricity. In this

connection, I am happy to announce that in response to our request

for submission of EOI 2(two) renowned Company having

worldwide experience & reputation have come forward to clean thegarbage by applying modern technique and to generate electricity

by installation of necessary plant. The whole system will remain

pollution free. SMC will also earn a good amount therefrom. The

plant will be installed either at the existing Trenching ground near

Don Bosco School or at Putimari (both land belongs to SMC)

where the project would be viable and NOC for the project has been

sought from the Govt. & other authorities. In this connection I also

like to mention that the EOIs are under consideration and we arewaiting for final opinion of the experts (both technical & financial)


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in this field. In this connection, I like to mention that we have

decided for construction of boundary wall at the existing Trenching

ground of SMC to protect the Municipal land as well as to prevent

spread of hazardous materials outside the specific area & the cost ofconstruction would be made out of fund available from NBDD

amounting to Rs. 1.10 crores assured by Honble Minister Sri

Goutam Deb. We have already taken initiative to spray domestic

garbage oil to destroy insects in the dumping ground.

8.2 General Cleanliness :-

I also like to point out that for regular cleaning of roads & drains,

washing of streets, anti-mosquito measure & other conservancy

service are being carried out by engaging about 2000 workers &

sweepers. Daily 57 nos. of vehicle are being used by SMC to carry

about 300 M.T. of garbage to Trenching ground. Besides that 2 nos.

Tipper, 4 nos. DI, 7 nos. Cesspool, 3 nos. Pay Loader & Fogging

machine are used regularly for conservancy services. In the last

year Budget speech it was stated that modern equipments would be

purchased but it was not possible due to paucity of fund in the

current year but our endeavour will continue.

8.3 Construction of Public Toilet :-

Construction of Public Toilet/Sulabh Complex at different places of

Siliguri is in our agenda. In the meantime 1(one) Sulabh Complex

has been constructed at Kanchanjungha Stadium by M/s. Enkon &

the same was mentioned in this Budget speech for the year

2011-2012. I am confident that remaining 2(two) Sulabh Complex

would be constructed by SMC as soon as land is available in the

year 2012-2013.I do also propose to set up 3(three) Sulabh complexes in Hill Cart

Road, Sevoke road & Bidhan Road) in the next financial year

2012-2013. Toilet Block at Old Bus stand of Bidhan Market will be

inaugurated soon & its management will be handed over to the

Ward Committee of Ward No. XI. More will be constructed in

various places on available land, for which survey is going on.

8.4 Sterilization of Street Dogs :-

~ 22 ~

I am glad to announce that Sterilization of Street Dogs will beconducted at the Sterilization Camp at Trenching Ground with the

active co-operation of Siliguri Animal Lovers Organisation and


23/37

Animal Link, Siliguri before its breeding time in the financial year

2012-13.

Free movement of dogs in the roads and their attack on the passers-

by is a burning problem but due to lack of infrastructure nothing

could be done as yet. I seek suggestion to solve the problem.

9.0 Trade License :-

You are aware that we have taken initiative to simplify the

procedure to obtain Trade License from SMC and I am happy to

mention that revenue income from this source has been increased.

In the year 2011-2012, 5581 nos. new trade license has been issued

& 16178 nos. trade license have been renewed so far. Revenue

income from Trade license in last 2(two) years along with current

year is given below :-

Sl.

No.Particulars

Amount 2009-

20102010-2011

2011-2012 (Upto

1stMarch 2012)

1.

Trade

License

Fees

Rs. 1,06,00,530/-

Rs. 1,66,82,790/-

(including arrear

of previous year

of

Rs. 40,00,000/-)

Rs. 1,68,55,659/-

In order to enrich the fund of Siliguri Municipal, Corporation from

this source I do propose for revision of the existing rate of Trade

License fees & Hoarding fees from the year 2012-2013 (which is in

force since the year 2000) & seek co-operation of the Councillors,

Business Organisation & Public in general in the matter.

I also like to mention that our initiative to remove unauthorized

Hoarding from Siliguri will be continued.

Considering that there is many more left without having tradelicense for their business, special drive will be taken to issue new

trade license and renewal of the same by holding camps in different

business area/markets in the month of April, 2012 and for running

business without the valid trade license penal measures will be

taken as per law.

10.0 Bhawans & Guest Houses :-

~ 23 ~

You are aware that SMC runs 5(five) Guest Houses with a view to

accommodate common people in minimum & reasonable rent.


24/37

As committed in the Budget proposal for the year 2011-2012, our

endeavour for expansion of Siliguri Atithi Niwas, Kolkata at the

adjacent land would be continued under PPP model or otherwise.

The whole matter is under process & it is expected that projectwould be started in the year 2012-2013. In the current financial year

2011-2012, room rent of the Guest Houses of SMC have been

increased in order to render better services to the citizen as well to

cope with expenditure to run such Guest House including cost of its

maintenance.

I am also happy to mention that action has been taken to ensure that

supply of tiffin & food to the boarders of the Guest House at

Kolkata on payment and I do hope that we would be able to extendthe service since 1

stApril, 2012 at reasonable fixed rate.

It is to be noted that Youth Service Deptt., Govt. of West Bengal

has expressed their views not to extend the lease tenure of the

Pantho Niwas, Kolkata at Moulali Yuba Kendra from the next year

2012-2013.

11.0 Building Matter:-

~ 24 ~

In the Budget proposal for 2011-2012, I mentioned that there is

necessity of amendment of the existing Building Rules of SMC toovercome the disadvantages of construction of residential building

in small plots & other construction within SMC area. Initiative in

the matter has been taken and after thorough discussion in the

Mayor-in-Council meeting, a draft has been prepared which is

pending for approval in the MIC meeting and BOC meeting and

final approval of the Govt. Another matter deserves to be

mentioned that necessary action would be taken to prevent illegal

construction within SMC area. I also like to point out thatimplementation of Promoter Act within SMC area is under

consideration & it is expected that we would be able to adopt the

same in the year 2012-2013. In this connection I like to announce

that the cess imposed by the State Govt. in the year 2007 for

sanctioning of Building plan which was effected from 1stFebruary,

2012 within SMC area is being withdrawn to lighten the burden of

common people of Siliguri and the amount already received so far

will be refunded. List of installation of illegal towers has beenprepared and action will be taken soon. I further announce that we


25/37

already discussed to review the present fees on several heads to

issue building plan and the revised fees to reduce burden will be

declared soon. All the land and buildings of SMC left unused will

be utilized to earn revenue.It is to be noted that at present for sanction of any plan for high rise

buildings and some other buildings rain water harvesting and

plantation of trees has become mandatory.

12.0 Education & Culture :-

As committed in the Budget proposal for the year 2011-2012, the

Siliguri Municipal Corporation will continue its function to

improve healthy atmosphere in the field of education & culture in

the next year 2012-2013. We are also in constant touch withEducation Deptt., Govt. of West Bengal to enlarge the scope of

education & culture in Siliguri Municipal Corporation area.

I do propose for holding Vivek Mela on the occasion of 150thBirth

Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda in April, 2012.

12.1 Setting up of New Schools and Upgradation of Schools :-

So far the matter regarding upgradation of schools in the SMC area

is concerned, proposal was sought for upgradation of 6(six) schools

within SMC area. But we have received necessary papers from theschools namely 1.Bani Mandir Junior High School 2.Sishu Siksha

Niketan Hindi Primary School & the same has been forwarded to

the Govt. Proposal for remaining 4(four) schools will be forwarded

after receipt of necessary papers in the next financial year

2012-2013.

12.2 Youth Festival, Siliguri Utsav and Ward Utsav :-

i. Ward Utsav of most of the wards of SMC has been successfully

organized during the year 2011-2012.

ii. Siliguri Municipal Corporation has organized Youth Festival 2011

(Municipal level) on 3rd

& 4thDecember, 2011 in association with

Youth Service Deptt., Govt. of West Bengal in a befitting manner.

~ 25 ~

iii. Puroshree award was given to the winners of Central Cultural

competition held on 20th September to 26

th September, 2011 and

Puja issue of the bi-annual magazine of SMC Purobarta waspublished on the same occasion.


26/37

12.3 Observance of Birth Anniversary of Eminent Personalities and

other National Days :-

During the year 2011-2012 we observed the following programme

in a befitting manner.

i. Netaji Birthday

ii. Birthday of Masterda Surya Sen

iii. Birthday of Rabindranath Tagore

iv. Birthday of Kaji Nazrul Islam

v. Birthday of Munshi Prem Chand

vi. Birthday of Pandit Iswar Chandra Vidyasagar

vii.

150thBirth Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda

viii. Birthday of Mahatma Gandhi

ix. Rabindra Tiradhan Diwas

x. Independence Day

xi. Republic Day

xii. Birthday of poet Bhanu Bhakta

xiii. Great footballer Gostho Paul

xiv. Observance of the day of sacrifice of Great Martyr Khudiram Bose

12.4 Reception of Meritorious Students :-

Siliguri Municipal Corporation awarded reception to the

meritorious students and distinguished players in a colourful

programme held on 17thDecember, 2011.

12.5 Mid-day Meal Programme :-

Mid-day Meal programme is going on within SMC area satisfactory& as committed in the Budget proposal for the year 2011-2012, the

said programme has been extended to the Upper Primary Schools

within SMC area. A table showing the details of the programme

with number of students covered is given below :-

~ 26 ~


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Darjeeling District

ParticularsNo. of

Schools

No. of

Students

covered

under

MDM

No. of

months

Yearly no.

of students

covered

under

MDM

Remarks

Primary

School

(I-IV)

Upper

Primary

School

(V-VIII)

80

32

20331

26231

12

9

243972

314772MDM started

in July 2011

Total 112 46562 558744

Jalpaiguri District

ParticularsNo. of

Schools

No. of

Students

covered

underMDM

No. of

months

Yearly no.

of students

covered

underMDM

Remarks

Primary

School

(I-IV)

Bridge

Course

School

Junior

High

School

Upper

Primary

School

25

2

6

8

7821

145

900

7700

12

1

6

9

93852

145

5400

69300

MDM to be

started from

March 2012

MDM started

from October

2011

MDM started

from July 2011

Total 41 16566 1,68,697

I do propose for construction of 40 nos. of Mid-day meal kitchen

shed in Primary and Upper Primary Schools within SMC area.I do also propose for installation of fire protection device in 150

nos. of Primary and Upper Primary Schools within SMC area.

~ 27 ~


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12.6 Nagarik Convention :-

Nagarik Convention will be held in the month of May, 2012 and

subsequent thereto.

12.7 Setting up of Art Academy and Art Gallery :-

Proposal to set up an Art Academy was mentioned in the Budget

proposal for the year 2011-2012, but due to short span of time after

the passing of the Budget estimate for the year 2011-2012 the work

could not be taken up. However matter would be taken up in the

next year 2012-2013 for the promotion of creative artifacts of the

local artists.

12.8 Fostering of Cultural Heritage :-

Our aims & objects on fostering the cultural heritage of different

linguistic group of Siliguri will be continued in the year 2012-2013.

12.9 Publication of Puro Barta :-

It is already known to you that the present Board of SMC took

initiative as soon as it assumed charge in the year 2009 for regular

publication of the Municipal magazine Purobartaand I am glad

to inform you that total 3(three) issues have been published since

the year 2010. In the current financial year 2011-2012 only oneissue was published in October 2011 & other which was due to be

published in April 2011 was not possible due to Assembly Poll of

West Bengal in May 2011. Publication of Purobarta will

continue in the next year 2012-2013.

12.10 Setting up of statue of eminent personalities :-

I am happy to inform you that we have decided to set up a Bronze

statue of the father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi at the 4(four)

point crossing of Hasmi Chawk area, replace the statue of Swami

Vivekananda at Jhankar More and take initiative to decorate and

illuminate Vivekananda square (Sevoke More) in a befitting

manner with portrait and message of Swami Vivekananda.

13.0 Games & Sports :-

In the financial year 2011-2012, SMC has successfully

implemented the following programmes for promotion of Sports &

Games within SMC area.

~ 28 ~

Sports equipments have been distributed amongst the various sports

organizations and wards.


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Inter coaching camp football tournament has been organized in

association with SMKP.

73rd

National Junior & Youth Table Tennis Championship was

organized by SMC in association with SJDA & North Bengal TableTennis Association.

Renovation work of Siliguri Indoor Stadium was extensively taken

up in the year 2011-2012 for which a sum of Rs. 26 lacs has been

spent. And Sri Goutam Deb, Honble Minister-in-Charge, North

Bengal Development Department, Govt. of West Bengal, has

assured to grant the entire amount.

Distinguished and promising sports persons/players have been

felicitated by SMC.Grants have extended to various sports bodies from time to time for

their efforts in organizing school level and district level sports

meets at Siliguri. We have organized Inter Ward T20 Cricket

tournament of Borough III and shall be extending the said

tournament to the other Boroughs and finally organize a Central

tournament during the current year.

We have decided to set up Borough level football coaching camps

for nurturing new talents.We have decided to impart badminton coaching to under privileged

children at SMC Indoor Stadium in association with Himalayan

Sports & Educational Society.

We shall be organizing Chess coaching camp at the SMC Indoor

Stadium.

We are looking forward to hosting of an International Table Tennis

Championship at SMC Indoor Stadium soon.

Siliguri has seen a rise in sporting activities recently. The Kho-Khoand Kabaddi nationals under PYKA, the 2

ndDivision I-league, State

~ 29 ~

Body building competition and various other events have made

Siliguri proud. The installation of flood lights at Kanchanjungha

Krirangan with the assistance of Sri Goutam Deb, Honble

Minister, North Bengal Development Department and the initiatives

taken by Sri Madan Mitra, Honble Minister of Sports, Govt. of

West Bengal shall go a long way in bringing several important

sporting events to Siliguri, the benefits whereof shall percolate tothe people of Siliguri.


30/37

Provision has been made for the development of various sports

grounds within SMC area.

It has been decided that a modern climbing wall would be

constructed at Surya Sen Park to encourage the future climbers ofthe city.

14.0 Self Employment Programme :-

We have already taken initiative for skill development of young

generation to make them Self Employed through Govt. & Non-

Govt. organization (Both Central & State Govt.) & other institution.

Bank authority has been requested for sanctioning of bank loan to

the small & micro entrepreneurs.

15.0 Market Complex :-

We have given stress for revenue generation from the existing

markets within SMC area. In order to develop those markets as well

as setting up of new markets and for arrangement of suitable

amenities the fund is necessary. Collection of revenue specially

from toll tax was gradually diminishing due to absence of man

power and other administrative problems. In order to raise revenue

from 7(seven) markets of SMC (namely Bidhan Market, Town

Station Market, Ambedkar Market, Gate Bazar Market, Rathkhola

Market, Salugara Market etc.), tender was invited and collection

has already been started from those market. A table showing the

increase of revenue generation in last 2(two) financial years is

given below.

Sl. No. Name of the Market Tax Collection

in the year

2010-2011

Tax

Collection in

the year2011-2012

1. Bidhan Market 8,17,606/- 9,40,847/-

2. V.S. Market (Ground floor) 1,65,491 3,82,854/-

3. V.S. Market

(1stfloor)

81,707/- 1,64,277/-

4. V.S. Market

(2nd

floor)

1,73,354/- 2,57,058/-

~ 30 ~

Apart from this, toll collection during the year 2011-2012 from allthe markets has been raised to Rs. 8,67,685/- (Previous year


31/37

collection was Rs. 1,62,277/-) and collection of rent from Pantho

Niwas (Stall) during the year 2011-2012 (upto Feb2012) is

Rs. 55,791/-.

15.1 Book Market near Children Park :-

Initiative has been taken to construct and start book market near

children park on SMC land. The matter is under process.

15.2 Development of D.I. Fund Land & Market :-

It is known to you that the land of D.I. Fund market has not yet

been handed over to the SMC by D.I. Fund authority. As a result of

which we are not in a position to take up development work in the

said market. It is also to be noted that there is litigation in the matter

of Fish Market under D.I. Fund Market. The case is pending before

the Honble High Court of Calcutta. We have to persue the matter

to vacate the case.

However collection of revenue towards toll & revenue from the D.I.

Fund market is being done by the permanent employees of the

Corporation & total revenue collected from D.I. Fund market

during the year 2011-2012 is Rs. 2,20,789/- (up to February 2012).

16.0 Improvement of Traffic Management System :-I have already mentioned that for improvement of Traffic

Management, Siliguri Traffic Police shall have to take action to

prevent encroachment of footpath, to regulate the movement of

Bus, Auto Rickshaw as per route permit and restriction which has

already been imposed for movement of Rickshaws, should also be

strictly followed. Declaration of some of the area of SMC as No

Parking zone is under consideration and matter would be

discussed with the local administration soon. I do also propose forsanction of at least 100 posts of Green Police for Siliguri Municipal

Corporation and the same would be forwarded to the Govt. for

approval. I would also like to mention that necessary measure

would be taken for easy thoroughfare of public and slow moving

vehicle below the flyover in both the lanes from Siliguri P.S. to

Alupatty. I do also propose for construction of 3(three) nos. foot-

over bridges at Air View More, Panitanki More and Siliguri

Junction in the year 2012-2013.

~ 31 ~


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Finally, I seek co-operation & suggestion from the citizen to solve

the traffic problem & transportation problem of Siliguri.

17.0 Mediclaim for Councillors and employees of Corporation :-

I am happy to mention that the Mediclaim facility for the

Councillors & employees of this Corporation will be continued and

required fund has been allotted in the Budget estimates of SMC for

the year 2012-2013.

18.0 Measures for employees welfare :-

i. I am happy to mention that during the year 2011-2012 wages of the

Daily wage workers and contractual workers of SMC has been

increased with effect from 01.09.2011 and 01.02.2012 respectively.

ii. We have taken measures to fill up the vacant post of SMC through

promotion and new recruitment.

iii. GSLI scheme which is in force since the year 1996 for the benefit

of the employees will continue in the next year 2012-2013.

iv. I do also propose for Universal Health Insurance Policy for all

Daily wage conservancy workers & contract basis workers engaged

in SMC from the year 2012-2013.

v. EPF would be implemented for the daily wage workers working in

SMC from the next year 2012-2013.

19.0 Finalisation of the list of casual workers of SMC :-

In the speech of Budget proposal for the year 2011-2012, I

mentioned that 2(two) lists consisting 764 casual employees of

SMC with effect from 01.01.92 to 31.12.98 & 01.01.99 to 31.12.08

was forwarded to the Govt. but no approval has yet been received.

However, the Govt. would be requested further to accord necessary

sanction.

20.1 Habitable Quarter for Harijan employees & Improvement of

infrastructure of Harijan Primary School :-

Renovation of the existing Harijan Quarter of SMC is in our

agenda, this year the work could not be done due to non-availability

of fund. In the next year 2012-2013, I do propose for construction

of new Harijan Quarter in Ward No. 5,13,14 & 24 & necessary

Budget provision has been made.

~ 32 ~

21.0 Municipal Organisational Development :-

21.1 Construction of new office building :-


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I am glad to inform you that measure has been taken for

construction of new administrative building (G + 6) of SMC in the

land adjacent of the Central office at a project cost of Rs. 32.46

crores. Sri Goutam Deb, Honble MIC, North Bengal DevelopmentDepartment laid the foundation stone of the building on 24

thMarch,

2012 and M.A. Deptt., Govt. of West Bengal has already released

Rs. 2 crores for the purpose of 1st phase of work. I convey my

heartfelt thanks to Honble MIC, Janab Firhad Hakim for his

assistance and Sri Goutam Deb for his initiative.

21.2 Sanction & Recruitment of required number of Technical &

other staff in SMC :-

In the Budget proposal for the year 2011-2012, I already mentioned

that Staff Pattern of SMC has not yet been completed by the Govt.

and a formal proposal for sanction of some technical posts was also

sent during the year 2009-2010 but no sanction has yet been

received. We expect that Govt. sanction in the matter would be

available during the year 2012-2013.

I also like to point out that huge number of experienced staff of

SMC has been retired during the year 2009-2010 & 2010-2011 &

2011-2012 and as a result of which it has become difficult to run

the Corporation with huge shortage of staff.

We have noticed that the State Govt. has taken a policy for

appointment of retired employees on contract basis in order to

maintain the day-to-day work. The matter is also in our

consideration to fill up the vacuum due to retirement of experienced

staff in last 3 years.

Engagement of a Revenue Officer to deal in revenue matter of SMC

is also in our consideration and Govt. would be moved to accord

sanction of the post.

21.3 Geographic Information System :-

In the Budget speech I already mentioned our views on GIS system

for strategic planning including land planning and management and

our initiative in the matter would be continued.

21.4 Audit & Accounts :-

~ 33 ~

I am glad to mention that Audit of Accounts of MC up to the year2010-2011 has been completed by the Examiner of Local Accounts


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(LBA) West Bengal and preparation of Balance Sheet for the year

2007-2008 and 2008-2009 has been completed as per guideline of

the Govt. and the preparation of Balance sheet for the year 2009-

2010 is under process.

21.5 Citizens Charter :-

Our commitment to the citizen of Siliguri to render time bound &

quality services to the rate payer in respect of issuance of Trade

License, Mutation, Sanction of Site Plan & Building Plan & Birth

& Death Certificate will be continued in the year 2012-2013 too.

21.6 Moreover, I like to add that the Corporation reserves its right to

function as per provision of Section 97 and 98 of the West Bengal

Municipal Corporation Act, 2006 as far as may be practicable.

22.0 Proposal for increase of earning of the Corporation :-

I have confident enough that Honble Councillors will admit that in

order to render regular civic service of SMC specially in the field of

conservancy, street lighting, construction & improvement of roads,

drains & culverts and for construction of market complex & other

developmental activities, there is necessity of enough fund and I do

propose to raise fund from the following source.

22.1 Stress on Collection of Property Tax :-

Like the year 2011-2012, stress would be given for collection of

arrear Property Tax and seek co-operation of all Councillors and

employees and above all from the rate payers to extend their hands

of co-operation to render best services to the citizen of Siliguri.

Stress also be given for collection of arrear Property Tax for Govt.

holdings. Another matter which deserves to be mentioned that

General Assessment of Holdings within SMC area is pending since

the year 2003-2004 on account of various reason. However it is

expected that West Bengal State Valuation Board would publish the

list of General Assessment of Holdings soon and action would be

taken for implementation as soon as the list is published from the

end of West Bengal State Valuation Board.

22.2 Collection of Property Tax from the newly assessed Holdings :-

~ 34 ~

After discussion with West Bengal Valuation Board Interim

Assessment of Holdings within SMC area has been started since the

year 2010-2011 and the same is continuing. I am also glad to


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inform you that Interim Assessment of 9778 nos. of new Holdings

has been completed in last 2(two) financial years & scope of

revenue generation would be Rs. 68,34,230/- per year.

22.3 Collection of Stay Tax :-You are aware that SMC collects Stay Tax from the Boarder of

various Hotels and Lodges. In the year 2011-2012 Rs. 3,62,700/-

has been collected so far. It is to noted that at present Stay Tax is

collected @ Rs. 2/- for Non-AC room & Rs. 5/- for AC room per

Day and as such I do propose for restructuring of Stay Tax fees

from the next year 2012-2013.

22.4 Income generation from Corporation Property :-

You are aware that SMC has taken initiative to raise income fromits own Property viz. Guest Houses, Market Complex, Parks and

other Properties of SMC since the year 2010-2011. Like previous

year I also welcome the private enterprises to come forward and

take up development works in Municipal land and properties in PPP

model.

22.5 Collection of revenue from Cable Operator :-

The proposal was given in this Budget Estimate for the year

2011-2012 but the same has not been introduced. However thematter will be decided after taking decision in MIC/BOC meeting.

23.0 Infrastructure Development by raising loan from West Bengal

Municipal Development Fund :-

In the Budget speech for the year 2011-2012, I mentioned that a

Trust was formed by Govt. of West Bengal with a view to extend

financial support to the Urban Local Bodies for development of

Infrastructure. In the current financial year we expect that fund willbe available from this source and I am happy to announce that Rs. 2

crores has been sanctioned by West Bengal Municipal

Development Fund for infrastructural development of Municipal

Area and which will be available soon.

24.0 REVENUE BUDGET

According to Revised Budget for the year 2011-2012 Revenue

Budget is placed for your consideration.

~ 35 ~


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25.0 TAX REVENUE

I like to mention that in the year 2010-2011income on account of

Tax Revenue was Rs. 6.24 crores and in the year 2011-2012

Revised Budget the amount is Rs. 6.63 crores and Proposed Budget

for the year 2012-2013 is Rs. 10.79 crores.

26.0 NON-TAX REVENUE

While preparing Budget Proposal for the year 2012-2013

importance is given on collection of non-tax revenue like mutation

fees, income from laying of underground cable line, installation of

mobile tower, plan passing fees, sale of forms, etc.Proposed income on account of non-tax revenue for the year 2012-

2013 is Rs. 19.58 crores and in the revised budget for the year

2011-2012 it is Rs. 14.75 crores.

27.0 A pen-picture is depicted according to Revised Budget of 2011-

2012:

Financial Year 2011-2012

Revised Revenue Receipt Rs. 536,814,100.00

Revised Revenue Expenditure Rs. 504,591,100.00

Revenue Surplus Rs. 32,223,000.00

Proposed Revenue Budget for the year 2012-2013

Revenue Receipt Rs. 734,042,000.00

Revenue Expenditure Rs. 662,129,400.00

Surplus Rs. 71,912,600.00

28.0 EXPENDITURE

~ 36 ~

Detail of total expenditure on different heads in the Budget

Proposal for the year 2012-2013 is given. In the year 2010-2011

total expenditure was incurred Rs. 78.78 crores and in the Revised

Budget for the year 2011-2012 it is Rs. 91.71 crores. In the

Proposed Budget for the year 2012-2013 an amount of Rs. 147.82

crores has been taken into account for expenditure which is placedfor your approval.


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29.0 CONCLUSION

Earnest efforts have been made to draw a balance between revenue

earnings and endues of funds by prioritizing the need of the hour. In

consideration of rising non-plan expenditures co-ordinated actionplan is required to plug the gap between earning and expenditure so

that resources are generated for undertaking developmental works.

It was our heartfelt endeavour for development of infrastructure,

special attention for the poor, helpless and distress women, to

enlarge the scope of resource mobilization from own source,

improvement of civic amenities, to restore healthy cultural

atmosphere, to improve the traffic management system, making the

city pollution free and above all employment generation taking co-operation from all concern of society. All efforts would be taken to

run transparent Municipal administration.

I convey my thanks to the Govt. of India, Honble Chief Minister,

Govt. of West Bengal, Honble Minister-in-Charge, Municipal

Affairs & Urban Development Department, Honble Minister-in-

Charge, North Bengal Development Department, Govt. of West

Bengal and other Honble Ministers, MPs and MLAs who have

extended their hands of co-operation for the development of thistown.

You will admit that there is problem in the process of urbanization

of Siliguri due to its speedy growth of population in last 3 (three)

decades. Still there is potential of the town due to its topographical

importance and I firmly believe that we shall be able to overcome

all difficulties with the co-operation of all our Councillors, Leader

of the opposition, Officers, employees, Print & Electronic media &

people of all corner of the Society.I appeal before you all to proceed jointly to achieve our target to

make Siliguri a prosperous city.

I seek your support and approval to implement the Budget proposal

for the year 2012-2013 and to adopt the same.

Place Siliguri (Gangotri Datta)

Placed on 28th

March 2012 Mayor

mayors statement 2012 2013 full budget estimate

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