Kolkata, 02 August (H.S.) : West Bengal Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Minister Agnimitra Paul arrived at Bagdogra Airport on Sunday ahead of her visit to the Siliguri Municipal Corporation, where she is scheduled to hear public grievances and hold a review meeting with civic officials.

Speaking to reporters at the airport, Paul outlined the state government's priorities for urban infrastructure and civic administration while also making several political allegations against the previous government.

The minister said the government is working to fulfil its pre-election commitments and alleged that the previous administration had facilitated documentation for illegal Rohingya immigrants. She did not provide evidence to support the claim.

Addressing the condition of roads, Paul said damaged roads across the region would be repaired and new double-layered roads would be constructed. She alleged that the previous government had failed to improve road infrastructure, leaving residents to face severe waterlogging during the monsoon.

She also said that all road construction projects would undergo quality inspections and that any allegations of irregularities or corruption in public works would be investigated before contractors' work is approved.

Paul added that the government is focusing on improving drinking water supply, drainage systems and street lighting. She said strict action would be taken against illegal parking, encroachments and the dumping of construction materials such as sand and stone chips on public roads. Violators, she said, would face penalties. Owners of vacant plots would also be held responsible for keeping their land clean.

On law and order, the minister alleged that the previous government had encouraged anti-national elements instead of protecting citizens. She also claimed that individuals identified as Hamim and Arpita had conspired to harm the Chief Minister. She did not present evidence for the allegation, and there was no immediate response from those named or from representatives of the previous government.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh