Dehradun Citizens Forum to Host 'Mayor Dialogue' on January 18.
Candidates to Present Vision for City's Green Agenda...
Dehradun: In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Dehradun Citizens Forum is organizing a 'Mayor Dialogue' on January 18, where mayoral candidates will present their vision for the city’s green future.
The dialog , set to take place at 12:00 PM at the Press Club, Parade Ground, aims to secure commitments from candidates on implementing a Green Agenda for Dehradun if elected.
Anoop Nautiyal, a key member of the forum, highlighted the significance of the initiative. “Citizens’ participation in elections often ends with casting their votes.
This time, Dehradun residents are coming together to actively voice their demands and expectations, particularly on urban and environmental issues,” he said.
Nautiyal added that a state-level Green Agenda was released on January 6 and shared with political parties, social organizations, trade bodies, and prominent individuals.
“A specific Green Agenda for mayoral candidates has also been prepared and handed over to candidates from major political parties,” he noted.
Bharti Jain, another forum member, elaborated on the Green Agenda’s focus areas.
“It includes critical urban issues like waste collection and segregation, imposing fines for waste burning, scientifically managed waste dumping zones, and proper drainage systems.
These are fundamental to building a cleaner and greener Dehradun,” she said. Jain emphasized that the agenda also calls for removing encroachments from drains and rivulets, identifying and regulating pollution sources, constructing footpaths and cycling tracks, and developing new parks.
Jain further added, “The agenda highlights governance reforms such as organizing quarterly meetings with citizens, establishing ward committees, implementing rainwater harvesting systems, and enforcing the provisions of the 74th Constitutional Amendment.
We’ve received positive responses from candidates, who have agreed to participate in the dialogue.”
Jagmohan Mehdiratta, another member of the forum, shared logistical details of the event. “Each candidate will get 12 minutes to present their vision for Dehradun.
The event will be conducted in a dignified manner, and candidates’ supporters are requested to maintain decorum.
No candidate is allowed to send a representative in their place, and absentees will have their seats considered vacant,” he stated.
Mehdiratta stressed that the forum is committed to ensuring a focused and respectful discussion.
“The event will bring together members of the forum, representatives from active social organizations, trade associations, and media personnel from print, electronic, and social platforms,” he said, appealing to all participants to support the forum’s efforts in fostering accountability and transparency.
With civic and environmental issues taking center stage, the 'Mayor Dialogue' promises to be a crucial platform for candidates to engage with citizens and outline their commitments to a sustainable Dehradun.
