Mandi Gets Major Nirbhaya Fund Boost: Pink Toilets, CCTV & Safer Streets Planned in ‘Chhoti Kashi’

Mandi — fondly known as “Chhoti Kashi” — has earned national recognition after being selected among 10 cities across India under the Government of India’s ambitious Nirbhaya Fund initiative. The move marks a significant step toward strengthening women’s safety and upgrading public infrastructure in the historic town.

The announcement was made during the General House meeting of the Municipal Corporation Mandi, chaired by Mayor Virender Bhatt Sharma. Municipal Commissioner Rohit Rathour presented a detailed roadmap focused on creating safer, better-lit, and more accessible public spaces for women.

What Will Change on the Ground?

The approved proposal outlines a comprehensive safety upgrade across the town, including:

• Construction of dedicated pink toilets for women
• Installation of high-mast lights at critical locations
• Expansion and modernization of street lighting networks
• Deployment of CCTV cameras at major public spots
• Introduction of solar-powered lighting systems

These measures are designed not just as infrastructure projects, but as confidence-building steps — ensuring that women feel secure in markets, streets, and public areas, even after sunset.

The proposal will now be sent to the state government through the district administration for final approval before implementation begins.

Drainage, Roads & Waterlogging Under Review

Beyond the Nirbhaya initiative, civic authorities also reviewed ongoing development projects within municipal limits.

Special attention was given to the long-standing waterlogging issue in Indira Market, where wastewater accumulation has been a persistent problem. In coordination with the Jal Shakti Department, the drainage project’s tender process is currently underway. Officials have been directed to ensure timely execution to permanently address sewage overflow and stagnant water concerns.

Road repairs, sanitation systems, drainage networks, and public lighting infrastructure were also prioritized during the discussions.

Doorstep LPG Delivery in Newly Merged Areas

In another key decision, the House reviewed LPG cylinder distribution in rural areas recently merged into municipal boundaries. After consultation with the Food and Civil Supplies Department, authorities decided that eligible residents — even those in remote pockets — will now receive doorstep LPG delivery, ensuring equal access to essential services.

A New Chapter for Chhoti Kashi

Mayor Sharma emphasized coordinated and balanced urban growth, assuring that all departments will work in sync to upgrade civic amenities.

With its inclusion under the Nirbhaya Fund, Mandi stands at the threshold of meaningful change. For residents, especially women, this initiative is not just about infrastructure — it is about dignity, safety, and the freedom to move confidently through their own city.

If implemented effectively, this could become a defining chapter in Mandi’s journey toward becoming a safer and more inclusive urban space.

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