Dabhoi official suspended over non-functional streetlights on PM Modi's route
The in-charge clerk of the lighting department faces a six-day suspension for alleged negligence regarding streetlights in Vadodara district.
An official of the Dabhoi Municipality in Vadodara district has been suspended for six days after 12 streetlights on a road used by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 31 were found non-functional, according to The Indian Express.
The suspension order was issued by Dabhoi Municipality Chief Officer Viraj Shah against Mahesh Vasava, the in-charge clerk of the lighting department. The order cited alleged negligence in ensuring streetlight upkeep despite instructions from the municipality.
The affected stretch runs from Sinor Crossroads through the Bhogol area to Sarita Bridge. The order stated that 12 streetlights were not working and others were in a flickering state.
On October 31, Prime Minister Modi, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, and other dignitaries travelled approximately 90 km by road to Vadodara airport after attending National Unity Day celebrations at the Statue of Unity. The road trip was taken because dusk had fallen.
The municipality had assigned responsibilities including cleanliness, control of stray cattle, and maintenance of streetlights due to the movement of the VIPs. The order noted that Vasava failed to ensure necessary repairs were carried out in a timely manner.
The suspension was issued under Section 48 of the Gujarat Municipalities Act, 1963. Vasava has been asked to appear before the competent authority on November 6 at 11 am to provide an explanation for his alleged negligence.