Concerns Over Shifting Bhopal Collectorate to Professor Colony
Opposition Grows Against Relocation Plan
The proposal to shift the Bhopal Collectorate from the Old Secretariat to Professor Colony has sparked significant concerns among residents, officials, and local leaders. The proximity of Ban Ganga, one of the largest slums in Bhopal, as well as the presence of multiple educational institutions, has been cited as a major hindrance to the plan.
Key Issues Highlighted
- Proximity to Ban Ganga Slum
Ban Ganga, located just a furlong away from Professor Colony, is a densely populated slum that already poses challenges for city administration. Relocating the Collectorate to this area is expected to exacerbate these issues. - Impact on Educational Institutions
Professor Colony houses several educational institutions, including the Centre for Research and Industrial Staff Performance (CRISP), Bhopal Polytechnic College, MLB College, and a Government School Girls’ Hostel. The lack of a road widening scheme in the proposed plan could lead to increased congestion and disruption in the area. - Concerns from Local Leaders
Shabista Zaki, Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) and corporator for Ward 24, strongly opposes the relocation, citing the logistical and infrastructural challenges posed by the nearby slums and educational institutions. Rajesh Maheshwari, Senior Manager at CRISP, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the strain the move would place on the already crowded vicinity of Professor Colony. - Advocacy for Re-densification
Bhopal MP Alok Sharma has raised the issue in support of re-densification at the current Collectorate site in the Old Secretariat. He pointed out that sufficient space is available there for redevelopment, which would negate the need for relocation to Professor Colony.
Call for Reconsideration
Residents and officials are urging the government to reconsider the relocation plan. Advocates of the re-densification strategy argue that it is a more practical solution that avoids the complications associated with shifting to a low-density yet critical area like Professor Colony.
