With the three major political parties in Odisha fielding strong candidates for the post of Mayor, the election for the top office in the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) is set to witness a tough battle.
While BJD has fielded Subash Singh as their candidate for the post, Sritam Das and Giribala Behera have been declared candidates by BJP and Congress respectively for the CMC election, comprising 59 wards.
The plot for the crucial election has thickened with all the political parties intensifying their campaigning.
However, sources said, large-scale discontentment is brewing among the residents of the town as the CMC authorities have been turning a blind eye towards providing basic amenities to the areas.
Water logging and poor sanitation remains a major cause of concern for the residents of the Millenium City. The problem becomes acute during monsoon when the roads in these localities get waterlogged.
“Students, traders and office-goers find it difficult to commute on the roads as contractors who have taken up repair works under JICA project have dumped debris all over, making it almost impossible to drive, or even walk,” said a resident of Cuttack.
“People of Cuttack are facing endless problems due to the JICA project which is yet to be finished. Leaders of political parties come to the people and give several assurances before every election. However, problems persist,” said another resident of the town.
However, candidates in the civic election fray claim that they are committed to the development of the city and do a turnaround if voted to power.
“The CMC authorities have failed to provide basic amenities to the people of the town. Another major issue is the JICA project which is yet to be completed even after 10 years. The State government has no clue about the project and the people of Cuttack are left in the lurch. Residents of Cuttack are dissatisfied with the ruling party which will be reflected in the upcoming urban election,” said Congress candidate Giribala Behera.
Meanwhile, BJP candidate Sritam Das said the government lacks the commitment and intentions to finish the project in time.
“People are getting attracted to BJP spontaneously because of the indifferent attitude of the ruling party. We will win the election this time,” said Das.
On the other hand, BJD candidate Subash Singh said their party will focus on the developmental works to win the confidence of the voters.
“We are working for the development of slum dwellers. We have set a target to finish the JICA project within one year on priority basis. Besides, we will concentrate on the development of drainage systems, sanitation and other developmental works,” said Singh.