SILIGURI MUNICIPAL CORPORATION

SILIGURI
The Revised Budget Estimates for the year 2011-2012
&
The Budget Estimates for the year 2012-2013 of
The Siliguri Municipal Corporation

MAYORS STATEMENT



Respected Chairman Sir,

1.0 With your permission I rise to present the proposed Budget
Estimates of Siliguri Municipal Corporation under Section 69 of the
West Bengal Municipal Corporation Act, 2006 for the financial
year 2012-2013 along with Revised Budget for the financial year
2011-2012. I also like to avail the opportunity to welcome all
Honble Councillors who are present and request all of them to take
part in the discussion and to adopt the Budget Estimate of the
income amounting to Rs. 146.57 crores and expenditure amounting
to Rs. 147.82 crores for the year 2012-2013.

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1.1 Before placement of the Budget Estimates for the year 2012-2013, I
would like to mention that on account of Assembly Election of
West Bengal Legislative Assembly (which was held in May 2011),
the Budget Estimates of Siliguri Municipal Corporation for the
financial year 2011-2012 was placed in the meeting of the
Councillors of Siliguri Municipal Corporation on the 25
th
day of
August 2011 & the same was adopted by the Board of Councillors
of SMC with few modification on 27
th
August, 2011 and as a result
of which the present Board of Councillors have got little time of
only 6/7 months to conclude the financial year 2011-2012.
However we have tried our best to bring a qualitative change in the
Municipal Administration in such short span of time to fulfill our
task with financial assistance of both Central & State Govt. and
from our own earning.

1.2 I like to mention here again that during preparation of Budget
Estimate for the year 2012-2013 of Siliguri Municipal Corporation,
emphasis has been given for need base development of Siliguri
keeping in mind the trend of urbanization of this town as we are
committed to the people of Siliguri to develop Siliguri Municipal
Corporation as a people oriented strong organization and which will
take various developmental activities in greater public interest.
1.3 You are aware that worldwide economic crisis has influenced our
economy to some extent and as a result of which prices of essential
commodities have been increased in the current financial year and
project cost of different schemes have been increased considerably
and expenditure of Siliguri Municipal Corporation has been
increased in many folds. In spite of that we have to combat the
situation with the assistance of both Central and State Govt. in the
next financial year.
2.0 Siliguri being the gateway of North-East India has developed as the
most important town in West Bengal and attained an important
position in respect of Trade and Commerce and tourist traffic. You
are also aware that Siliguri hosts over several lacs of domestic and
thousands foreign visitors annually. It has also emerged as base for
essential supplies to the North-East Region, specially Bhutan,
Nepal and Bangladesh. In order to develop such a growing town we
seek co-operation from Central Govt., State Govt., Honble
Councillors, Officers and employees of this Corporation and also
from the people in General to render better civic amenities to the
people and in this regard I do submit the following proposals :-
2.1 It was stated in the Budget proposal for the year 2011-2012 that
more emphasis would be given for restructuring of Tax and
realization of arrear dues and I am happy to announce that in the
current year we have been able to raise more revenue through
collection of arrear tax & interim assessment of holdings having
scope of increase of yearly revenue from Property Tax amounting
to Rs. 68,34,230/- per year. Ad-interim assessment of Property Tax
of the unassessed holdings within SMC area would be continued in
the next year 2012-2013 too.
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2.2 I like to reiterate that the developmental activities which has been
taken up in the current year 2011-2012 and not yet completed


would be completed. In this connection I like to mention that
formation of Ward Committees in all the wards of Siliguri
Municipal Corporation has been completed and almost all the
Statutory Committees and Special Committees have been formed
during the financial year 2011-2012.

2.3 I would also like to mention that improvement of infrastructure and
socio-economic development of the area which are comparatively
less developed would also be continued and necessary fund has
been allotted for the year 2012-2013.
2.4 I also like to mention that initiative shall also be taken up for up-
gradation of schools from primary section and establishment of
more Bengali, Hindi & Nepali medium schools & colleges within
SMC area.
2.5 We welcome the decision of the State Govt. and Honble Chief
Minister Smt. Mamata Banerjee for setting up of Secretariat of
North Bengal Development Department at Siliguri and do hope that
outright development of the entire North Bengal would be
implemented through this Secretariat.
We further welcome the decision for setting of Mini Mahakaran
at Siliguri by the State Govt.
2.6 In the Budget proposal for the year 2011-2012 it was stated that due
importance would be given for supply of drinking water in the
uncovered areas of Siliguri Municipal Corporation and I am happy
to mention that the matter has been reflected in the Budget proposal
of the Govt. of West Bengal for the year 2012-2013.
2.7 I would also assure that improvement, maintenance & construction
of new roads, bridges, culverts & drain within SMC area would also
be taken up as per need base and on priority basis.
2.8 Extension of street phases within SMC area during the financial
year 2011-2012 has been taken up & I am glad to mention that
20 Km of street phase has been extended in the year 2011-2012 &
remaining portion would be completed in the next financial year
2012-2013.
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2.9 Some playgrounds and parks have already been illuminated and
others have been identified for illumination in the next financial
year 2012-2013 and fitting & fixing of modern equipments for
street lighting would be given priority in the next financial year


2012-2013. Solar system will be introduced for lighting and other
purpose as per availability of fund.
2.10 Sports activities in Siliguri have been improved much. Endeavour
for extension of facilities for sports & games within Siliguri
Municipal Corporation area would be continued.
2.11 Developmental activities for improvement of the living condition of
slum dwellers would be continued with utmost priority.
2.12 Financial assistance for social welfare programme from Siliguri
Municipal Corporation end will be continued like previous year.
2.13 Special emphasis would be given for health care programme to
cover economically weaker families living within SMC area along
with BPL families.
2.14 Due importance would be given for literacy programme.
2.15 Civil Administration would be requested to develop the traffic
management system in Siliguri town. We also welcome the
announcement made by the State Govt. for creation of the post of
Police Commissionerate for Siliguri.
2.16 Ward Utsav in almost all the wards have been organized in the year
2011-2012 with a view to develop healthy cultural & sports
atmosphere and encourage the talent of local artists & players & the
same would be continued in the next year 2012-2013 with active
participation and support of the people of Siliguri.
2.17 Like previous year emphasis would be given to make Siliguri free
of pollution and necessary measure would be taken from
Corporation end.
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2.18 Decentralization of Municipal function at Borough level is our
commitment. Collection of Property Tax, Water Tax, monitoring
of defaulters, passing of building plans up to certain specification,
sanitation, maintenance of street light and garbage cleaning is being
done through Borough office. In the current financial year we have
been able to make necessary arrangement for issuance of Death
Certificate from Burning Ghat. Issuance of Trade License & Birth
Certificate from Borough offices is in our agenda. I do hope that we
would be able to do the same in the financial year 2012-2013. Apart
from this xerox machine and water purifier would be provided to
each Borough offices and contingency of Borough offices would be
increased from Rs. 5,000/- to Rs. 8,000/- per month from the year


2012-2013. And necessary Budget provision has been made for the
purpose.
2.19 You are aware that Public Grievance Cell in Siliguri Municipal
Corporation office is set up for lodging grievance for the benefit of
the people in general and the cell is functioning. The service is
available online and offline. The facility would be extended at
Borough level for the financial year 2012-2013.
2.20 Stress would be given for implementation for various Self-
Employment programmes for unemployed youths and it is proposed
that the facility be extended for the women belonging to the
economically weaker section by imparting training from
Corporation end.
2.21 Implementation of Solid Waste Management programme in all the
remaining wards during the year 2011-2012 was in our agenda. I
like to mention that the said programme has not yet been completed
in 2/3 wards and respective ward Councillors are requested to take
initiative in the matter.
2.22 In order to ensure transparent and effective Municipal services,
implementation of e-Governance in Siliguri Municipal
Corporation will be taken up with financial assistance of State
Govt. and as a part of the programme we have been able to
implement the same in respect of issuance of Birth & Death
Certificate and renewal of Trade License within this budget period
and other important issues like on line payment of P.Tax, passing
of building plan, tendering etc. will be taken up phase wise. In the
meantime installation of software has been completed and
e-Governance would be started full-fledged after imparting
training.
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2.23 World Environment Day was observed on 5
th
June, 2011 from
SMC end with a view to keep the environment of Siliguri free from
pollution through plantation of trees. Other measures have also
been taken to prevent water, air & noise pollution. You are aware
that use of plastic carry bags within SMC area has been banned
since the year 2010 in true sense. Emphasis is being given to stop
production, store and sale of all banned plastic materials and
printing thereon as per law. In case of any violation penal measure
will be taken.



2.24 I would also like to mention that emphasis would be given for
development of industries, Trade & Commercial activities and
tourism as well as for micro and small industries and handicrafts.
2.25 You are aware that a Disaster Management Team has been formed
with a view to combat the natural calamities. A severe earthquake
happened in September 2011 in North-Eastern India. People of
Sikkim & Darjeeling were very much affected and death toll raised
to more than one hundred. People of Siliguri Municipal area also
witnessed the said calamity with death toll, injuries to persons and
damages of private/public and Govt. properties, educational
institutes, buildings, roads, culverts etc. I convey my thanks to the
Govt. of West Bengal for sanctioning of Rs. 1 crore for
infrastructural Development of Siliguri due to earthquake. Apart
from the said amount, both Govt. of West Bengal and Central Govt.
have sanctioned separately Rs. 2 lacs to the family members of each
deceased and for repairing of residential premises of the earthquake
affected people residing within SMC area. SMC received a sum of
Rs. 4.52 crores. Injured persons were compensated @ Rs. 50,000/-
or Rs. 25,000/- as per gravity of injuries. Sri Goutam Deb, Minister-
in-Charge, North Bengal Development Department, Govt. of West
Bengal also took initiative to meet expenses of treatment of the
injured admitted in Nursing homes & hospitals. We convey our
thanks to both the Govt. & Sri Goutam Deb. SMC will further pray
for compensation before both the Govt. for affected educational
institution and Govt. offices, list whereof is already sent. In the
meantime list of beneficiaries for repairing of residential houses has
been prepared with active co-
operation of the Councillors, Officers and staff of SMC and
disbursement of fund received so far would be made within this
financial year 2011-2012. A table in this regard is given below for
your perusal :-
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Sl. No.
No. of
beneficiaries
Area
Amount to be
disbursed (in Rs.)
1. 6093
Wards within the District of
Darjeeling
2,89,19,500/-
2. 3512
Wardswithin the District of
J alpaiguri
1,69,35,000/-


I further convey my thanks to both the Central and State Govt. for
their assistance for the earthquake victims.
2.26 In the year 2010-2011 the proposal for inclusion of Siliguri in
J NNURM project was forwarded to the Central Govt. through State
Govt. But it has been informed that it would not be possible on the
part of the Central Govt. to include SMC under J NNURM project
for some technical reason. However, it has been learnt that the
Union Govt. has decided to launch the project J NNURM 2
nd
Phase
for small towns. It is expected that Siliguri would be included in the
2
nd
Phase of J NNURM and a formal proposal would be forwarded
to the Central Govt. through the State Govt.
2.27 As decided in the last budget meeting for the year 2011-2012 that
initiative would be taken to secure title of land to the existing
dwellers as per Govt. norms.
2.28 Initiative would be taken for issuance of holding nos. to the
inhabitants residing at Railway land in SMC area.
2.29 We have already taken necessary measure for upliftment of the
living standard of the people belonging to the weaker section of the
society by implementation of various schemes of Central & State
Govt. viz. IHSDP, SJ SRY, AAY, IGNOAPS, IGNWPS, IGNDPS
and NFBS, Annapurna Yojana, National Health programme etc. I
would like to mention that the same would also be continued in the
next year 2012-2013 with due diligence.
3.1 Integrated Housing and Slum Development Programme (IHSDP):-
The Siliguri Municipal Corporation has taken up the scheme since
the year 2007-2008 with a view to provide Healthy Home for the
slum dwellers residing within SMC area. The component of works
under the scheme are construction of dwelling houses, roads &
drinking water supply, electrification, community centre,
construction of community bath & toilet etc. the work is being
implemented in 3 phases.
A Salient feature of those schemes is given below:-
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Description
of the
Phase
Sanctioned
Amount
(Rs.)
Date of
Sanction
No. of
Dwelling
Units
Time Limit for
implementation
Progress
of the
Work
1
st
Phase 36.82 crores 31-03-2007 1998 2009-2010 72%
2
nd
Phase 19.99 crores 12-05-2008 1206 2010-2011 72%
3
rd
Phase 35.98 crores 19-01-2009 1859 2011-2012 23%


An elaborate discussion has been made with representatives of
SUDA for funding and early completion of the project. I hope to
complete the project within a short period.
3.2 Social Welfare Scheme :-
In the Budget speech for the year 2011-2012, I have already
mentioned that the disbursement of Old Age Pension to the
beneficiaries through their respective Bank A/c or Post Office A/c
has been started from the year 2010-2011 with active co-operation
of the Councillors & I am happy to mention that the same is
continuing & a table showing the number of beneficiaries under
various Social Welfare Scheme during the year 2011-2012 is given
below.
Sl. No. Name of the Scheme
Number of
Beneficiaries
Remarks
1. IGNOAPS 3757 Paid upto Dec11
2. IGNWPS 1651 Do
3. IGNDPS 60 Do
4. NFBS 81
Pending since J une
2010 in SUDA
5.
Antyodaya Anna
Yojana
6038 family In force
6. Annapurna Yojana 224 In force

Apart from above the social package of SMC out of Corporations
own fund will also be continued as per the year 2011-2012 with
enhancement of some numbers of beneficiaries and amount of
pension.
The same provision shall remain in force for the year 2012-2013
with some addition. The persons benefitted are as under.
No. of beneficiaries
Sl.
No.
Name of the
Scheme
Category of
beneficiaries
Rate of
assistance
per month
Present Proposed
Increased
Amount
2012-2013
1.
Financial
Assistance to
the Old Aged
Person
Financial
Assistance to
the support
less person
above 60
years
Rs. 350/- 1500 1500
Rs. 50/-
per head /
month
2.
Financial
Assistance for
widow
Rs. 350/- 750 850
Rs. 50/-
per head /
month

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No. of beneficiaries
Sl.
No.
Name of the
Scheme
Category of
beneficiaries
Rate of
assistance
per month
Present Proposed
Increased
Amount
2012-2013
3.
Financial
Assistance to
the Physically
handicapped
and mentally
retarded person
Rs. 350/- 600 650
Rs. 50/-
per head /
month
4.
Distribution of
Rice

10 kgs per
month
2500 2500

I feel that the no. of beneficiaries and the amount to be paid as
mentioned above are not sufficient, but our limited financial ability
has stopped me for the present to enhance the no. of beneficiaries
and the amount of financial assistance.
Besides these necessary Budget Provision of Rs. 20 lacs has been
made for the year 2012-2013 in Mayors Discretionary Fund for
extending financial assistance for the purpose of Health, Education
and Relief for natural calamity affected persons. It is to be noted
that during the year 2011-2012 financial assistance has been given
out of Mayors Discretionary Fund as given below :-

Sl. No. Purpose No. of beneficiaries
1. Education 19
2. Treatment 35
3. Relief 11
3.2a. In this connection I like to mention that Socio-Economic & Caste
Census 2011 is going on and likely to be completed by April,
2012 and future allocation of different schemes related to BPL
families be extended as per outcome of survey.
3.3 Special Initiative for Women :-
3.3i) Like previous year emphasis would be given for various income
generating scheme specially for women. In the year 2010-2011
vocational training was given to 30 women in different trade. In this
connection I like to point out that 1550 unemployed youths would
be imparted training during the year 2012-2013 in different
vocational course and necessary steps in this regard has already
been taken & whole matter is under process.

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3.3ii) I would also like to mention that special emphasis would be given
to improve the scope of women in various income generating


scheme for self-employment. SMC will also extend financial
assistance for treatment of female disease and the pregnant mothers
belonging to the weaker section of the society.

3.3iii) SMC will stand by & support the women against the social injustice
in & outside the family & will provide free legal & other assistance
with the help of NGO & North Bengal University, Law College and
Indian Institute of legal studies, Darjeeling. I like to submit that
SMC has provided its premises adjacent to Indoor Stadium for
establishment of CBI Court at Siliguri on rental basis & it is
expected that the proposed court will start to function from
1
st
April, 2012 in the next financial year 2012-2013.

3.3iv) Setting up of Govt. Home for supportless :-

In the Budget proposal for the year 2011-2012 proposal for setting
up of a Govt. Home for the supportless & victims of women
atrocities was reiterated but the proposal could not be implemented
due to non-availability of suitable land and also for paucity of fund.
However, I will render serious effort so that the proposal may be
materialized after availability of fund in the year 2012-2013.

3.4 Special Scheme for Supportless Children :-
I have already mentioned that after the adoption of Budget
Estimates for the year 2011-2012 we got a time of only 6/7 months
as a result of which it has not been possible from our end to move
to the State Govt. for setting up of orphanage for at least 100
orphans and destitute children to provide safe shelter and
arrangement of vocational training for them with definite project.
State Govt. will be moved for the purpose. Suitable premises have
to be identified in secured area.

3.5 Socio-economic development :-
The proposal for carrying out a detailed survey by a renowned
planning and financial organization for preparing a Master Plan of
Siliguri focusing on Socio-Economic Development is in our agenda
and I do expect that we would be able to do the job in the next
financial year 2012-2013.

3.6 Housing for the Urban Poor :-
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The scheme was introduced by the Govt. of West Bengal since the
year 2009-2010 for construction of dwelling units for urban poor


who have not been included in IHSDP scheme. In the current
financial year we have received Rs.1 crore so far and out of
sanctioned sum of Rs. 1 crore the same has been distributed to the
beneficiaries in all 47 wards and UC has been sent thereof. It is
expected that we shall get further Rs. 1 crore in the year 2012-2013.

3.7 Swarna Jayanti Sahari Rojgar Yojona (SJSRY) :-
Since the year 1997, the scheme is being introduced in Siliguri
Municipal Corporation area with a view to form Self-Help Group
among the women under BPL family for the purpose of income
generation & empowerment of the women. Siliguri Municipal
Corporation has taken all possible steps for implementation of the
schemes. Since its inception 898 nos. of Thrift & Credit Groups
have been constituted so far. The scheme is being implemented as
per guideline of the Govt. through NHG, NHC & CDS. At present
16556 women are involved in Thrift & Credit Groups.
In the Budget proposal for the year 2012-2013, necessary fund has
been allotted to extend assistance to community structure, subsidy
for Micro enterprises, training & workshop, vocational training,
Revolving fund for Thrift & Credit Groups, subsidy for urban
women, Self-Help programme & infrastructural support for
successful implementation of the scheme.

3.8 Basic Minimum Service (BMS) :-
The scheme is being taken up in SMC area for last few years for
improvement of roads, drains, electrification and to extend drinking
water facility for the under developed area of SMC. In the year
2010-2011 Rs. 2,09,61,000/- was available. In the Budget proposal
for the year 2012-2013, provision of Rs. 2.20 crores have been
made under the scheme.

3.9 BPL List :-
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You are aware that there are 22898 BPL families within SMC area.
You are also aware that huge number of families who are
economically weak have not been included in the said list. I have
already pointed out the matter in the Budget estimates for the year
2011-2012 that a further list of 20799 families was sent to SUDA
for inclusion of their names in BPL list. But till date we have not
yet received any response from SUDA inspite of our sincere effort.
I hope that the matter will be finalised soon by SUDA.



3.10 Rajib Awas Yojona :-
You are aware that Govt. of India announced a new project under
the name & style Rajib Awas Yojona for construction of dwelling
unit and other infrastructural development in slums which have not
been included in IHSDP. We took initiative to include SMC under
the project. A proposal in this regard has been sent to the Govt. of
India by the State Govt. for inclusion of Siliguri under Rajib Awas
Yojona. I convey my heartfelt thanks to Sri Goutam Deb, Honble
Minister-in-Charge, North Bengal Development Department for his
initiative to include Siliguri under the scheme.

3.11 Underground Sewerage System :-
You are aware that Siliguri J alpaiguri Development Authority
started the survey regarding the underground sewerage system in
consultation with SMC at the tenure of previous Govt. but survey
could not be materialized.
I have decided to place the matter before the Honble Minister-in-
Charge, Department of Urban Development, Govt. of West Bengal
to include the process of survey under UIDSSMT scheme.

4.1 Own fund of the Corporation or General Fund :-
I am happy to announce that for the general development of the
SMC area various development works would be taken up from
Corporations own fund and a sum of Rs. 5.67 crores has been
proposed for the year 2012-2013. It is to be noted that fund will be
allotted out of General fund for completion of ongoing projects in
different wards of the Corporation. Apart from this priority will also
be given for the development works in the under developed areas of
the Corporation. In this connection I would like to mention that
during the year 2011-2012 the following achievements has been
made in the field of developmental activities of Siliguri Municipal
Corporation.

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Last year achievements
New Road 15.6 Km
Repair Road 30.5 Km
Road Marking 5.2 Km
New Drain 10.25 Km
Repair Drain 5.6 Km


Last year achievements
Bridge 1 no.
Wooden Bridge 7 nos.
Renovation of Park 10 nos.


Proposal for new development projects

I am also happy to mention that the following proposal has been
forwarded to the Govt. for approval and allotment of fund.
i. Construction of new administrative building at Baghajatin Road,
Siliguri.
ii. Construction of commercial complex and administrative building
(Borough No. III) at Surya Nagar, Dabgram, Colony No. 1 under
Ward No. 23.
iii. Construction of 2
nd
Building Centre at Nowkaghat in Ward No. 31.
iv. We have also decided for construction of welcome gate at 3(three)
different places viz. Darjeeling More, Tinbatti More & Salugara.

4.2 Uttar Banga Unnayan Parishad:-
During the year 2011-2012, a sum of Rs. 40,84,966/- has been
sanctioned by UUP for development works of Siliguri. I do hope
that SMC will receive more fund from the UUP under this head in
the current year and in the Budget proposal for the year 2012-2013,
it has been proposed that SMC will receive Rs. 50 lacs under UUP
Head.

4.3 Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small &
Medium Town (UIDSSMT) :-
The project UIDSSMT was taken up by SMC in the year 2007-
2008 at a project cost of Rs. 33.86 crores. In the last year Budget
speech I mentioned that out of 80.775 Km long drain 75 Km of
drain has been completed. A sum of Rs. 5.79 crores was received
by SMC during the year 2010-2011 for completion of the remaining
5.77 Km long drain and the work is in progress.

4.4 Supply of Drinking Water :-
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You are aware that comprehensive water supply project phase-II
has already been started at a project cost of Rs. 32.97 lacs for the
added areas of SMC comprising 14 wards under J alpaiguri District.
Construction of OHR near Surya Sen College (under zone 7B) is in
progress. Apart from this construction of OHR under zone 7A


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(Saktigarh), 8B (Ghogomali) & 9B (Don Bosco) has already been
completed. Laying 143 km of pipeline at zone 8A, 8B, 9A & 9B
covering ward no. 36 to 44 has been done so that people of those
areas may be benefited from the supply of drinking water under the
scheme. Apart from this, work of laying additional pipe line from
ward no. 36 to 44 is almost completed at a project cost of Rs.
1,77,11,453/- and 68.04 km of pipe line has been laid. You are also
aware that the water supply project of zone X (ward no. 45, 46 &
47) started at a project cost of Rs. 13.14 lacs. I am glad to mention
that laying work of main & distribution pipe line for ward no. 45,
46 & 47 under zone x has already been completed and water is
being supplied through street stand posts and a few house
connection in ward no. 45 & 47. It is to be noted that water supply
in vast area of ward no. 46 could not be possible due to non
completion of the proposed OHR & 3 (three) nos. NH crossing. I
am happy to submit that the construction work of OHR has been
commenced and 2 (two) nos. of NH crossing have been completed
and the 3
rd
is in progress. You are aware that present source of
drinking water in SMC area is from Mahananda Barrage pond
where now water comes from Teesta Mahananda Link Canal which
is not dependable due to opening of barrage gates & situation
aggravates during the summer season. As a result of which the
necessity for alternate source of raw water was felt for some time
past & a committee was set by the M.A. Deptt., Govt. of West
Bengal for suggestion on alternate raw water source for Siliguri
Water Supply Project. The committee has submitted the report in
J uly, 2011. As per the recommendation of the committee, a scheme
of Rs. 176.59 lacs has been considered as best possible redress of
water need of Siliguri. However at meeting dated 21.08.11 in
presence of Honble MIC (PHE Deptt., Govt. of West Bengal &
Honble MIC, North Bengal Development Deptt., it was decided to
prepare 2 (two) projects, the 1
st
one for catering to the immediate
need of water supply in SMC area including enroute villages and
the 2
nd
one as long term measure for inclusion in VISION 2020
for catering ultimate requirement in SMC and adjoining area.
Accordingly, the present phase-I DPR has been prepared by PHE
Deptt. amounting to Rs. 303.94 crores (three hundred three crores
and ninety four lacs). I am happy to mention that the State Govt.


has also planned to cover additional areas of Siliguri Municipal
Corporation under the piped water supply scheme as reflected in the
budget proposal for the year 2012-2013. Besides this as per DPR of
Siliguri comprehensive water supply project (phase-I) there was a
provision of another storage pond of 472100 M capacity. Recently
the estimate for the said work has been vetted by EE (PHE Deptt.)
and the cost of project would be 8.82 crores.

Another matter which deserves to be mentioned that on account of
location of the water treatment plant of Siliguri Municipal
Corporation at Fulbari (near Indo-Bangladesh Border), there is
possibility of sabotage leading serious health hazard and to avoid
through fare of public in general, we have decided to enclose the
same with boundary wall for which fund has been sought under
BADP scheme. In the current financial year we have received Rs.
24 lacs towards operation and maintenance of Water Supply project
of Siliguri Municipal Corporation. Apart from these we have
already received administrative approval for providing electro
mechanical installation of Zone X under Siliguri Comprehensive
Water Supply Scheme. And I am happy to mention that Govt. of
West Bengal released a sum of Rs. 50 lacs for the purpose on 23
rd

March, 2012.

4.5 Schemes under financial assistance of SJDA :-
During the year 2011-2012, Siliguri J alpaiguri Development
Authority has allotted a sum of Rs. 1,95,14,825/- out of Rs. 7.50
crores receivable by the SMC for different projects within SMC
area.
I do hope that during the year 2012-2013 a sum of Rs. 8 crores
would be available for implementation of various development
scheme within SMC area.

4.6 Backward Region Grant Fund (BRGF) :-
~15~
You are aware that J alpaiguri District has been identified as
Backward Region as per Govt. guidelines of BRGF & now the
district has been included under BRGF scheme for various
development works in 14 wards of SMC which are in the district of
J alpaiguri. Various projects are being implemented since the year
2010-2011. In the year 2011-2012, SMC is in receipt of
Rs. 86,51,577/- against our Budget provision of Rs. 1.25 crores.


I do hope that in the next financial year 2012-2013, a sum of Rs. 1
crore would be available from BRGF head.

4.7 Central Assistance from 13
th
Finance Commission :-
Under this Head of Account Rs. 2,21,15,000/- has been received
during the year 2011-2012 as 1
st
installment. In the Budget estimate
for the year 2012-2013 provision has been made for Rs. 5 crores
under this Head of Account.

4.8 State Finance Commission Fund :-
In the year 2011-2012, Budget provision was made for Rs. 5 crores
and we have received Rs. 2,47,38,500/- so far & it is expected that
balance amount would be released by the State Govt. this year and
now Rs. 5.50 crores has been proposed out of SFC fund during the
year 2012-2013.

4.9 Employment Generation Scheme :-
In order to create mandays through implementation of various
development works, the Govt. of West Bengal has released a sum
of Rs. 1.65 crores during the year 2011-2012 and Rs. 2 crores has
been proposed for the next financial year 2012-2013.

4.10 West Bengal Urban Employment Scheme (WBUES) :-
This scheme was announced by the Govt. of West Bengal in the
year 2010-2011 with view to create more employment opportunity
as well as improve the civic infrastructure in urban area by
engaging unemployed person without involvement of contractor. In
the year 2011-2012 a sum of Rs. 2,84,78,500/- has been released by
the Govt. under this head. In the Budget Estimate for the year
2012-2013 Rs. 3 crores has been proposed for implementation of
the schemes under WBUES.

4.11 MP LAD :-
~16~
In the financial year 2011-2012 we have received Rs. 13.5 lacs
under this head against budget provision of Rs. 50 lacs. I convey
may heartfelt thank to Sri Yashwant Sinha, MP for his kind
allotment of Rs. 10 lacs for the development works of Munshi Prem
Chand college and Sri Saman Pathak, MP for his kind allotment of
Rs. 3.5 lacs for making sitting arrangement of Sr. citizen in ward
no. 02 & other development works within SMC area. In this
connection I like to mention that we expect that Sri Yashwant
Sinha, MP would also extend financial assistance to SMC out of


MP-LAD during the year 2012-2013 for the schemes to be
proposed by SMC.

4.12 Bidhayak Elaka Unnayan Prakalpa (BEUP) :-
In the financial year 2011-2012 we have received only Rs. 63,000/-
under this head. As Siliguri Municipal Corporation area is spread
over 2(two) Assembly Constituency area so we do hope SMC will
receive more fund out of BEUP fund during the year 2012-2013 &
Rs. 40 lacs has been proposed under BEUP in the Budget estimates
for the year 2012-2013.
I convey my thanks to local MLA and Chairman, SJ DA, Dr.
Rudranath Bhattacharya for taking initiative to improve Siliguri
District Hospital by installing generator, neo-natal care unit and
increasing no. of beds etc. Besides these Dr. Rudranath
Bhattacharya has donated an ambulance for Sriniwas Seva Sadan
out of BEUP fund.

4.13 Councillor LAD :-
In the Budget proposal for the year 2012-2013 provision has been
made for Rs. 4 lacs to each Councillor under Councillor LAD like
previous financial year 2011-2012. The details of which is given
below.

Sl.
No.
Particulars Amount
1. Ward Utsav Rs. 1.25 lacs
2. Book Grant, Treatment, Sports,
Development etc.
Rs. 2.75 lacs
Total Rs. 4.00 lacs

4.14 Electrification :-
Electrification of entire Corporation within shortest possible time is
our commitment. Out of total no. 24145 erected poles illumination
of 22603 nos. of poles has already been completed. 180 nos. of new
poles have been erected during the year 2011-2012. I do propose
extension of 30 Km street phase within SMC area in the next
financial year. Besides this I do propose for installation of 500
electric poles during the next year 2012-2013. Apart from this in
order to save 30% of annual energy charge the following proposals
are under consideration.
~17~
i. Change of Sodium Vapour sets with T-5 base lamps sets & LED
sets.
ii. Installation of solar lighting system in different parks & gardens.


iii. Installation of CFL type lamp instead of existing Sodium Vapour
lamps.
iv. Installation of timer switch.
Besides this, I do also propose :
i. Installation of High mast (2 nos.) & Mini mast (14 nos.) at different
Traffic points and illumination of 10 nos. playground.
ii. Arrangement of temporary illumination during festivals.
Maintenance of existing street light and garden light in different
parks & gardens will also be continued as before & necessary
Budget provision has been made for the year 2012-2013.
4.15 Development of Parks & Gardens :-
I am happy to mention that Sri Goutam Deb, Honble MIC, North
Bengal Development Deptt., Govt. of West Bengal has announced
that a new park would be set up in Ward No. 34. He also declared
that Ward No. 31 would be projected as Model Ward. We welcome
the decision and extend our heartfelt thanks for his initiative.
You are aware that there are 37 parks within SMC area and I do
propose for Rs. 35 lacs for renovation and repairing of those parks
and also setting up of new parks on availability of suitable land in
some of the wards.
The matter concerning the beautification of parks and gardens,
traffic islands, bifurcation within SMC area by outsourcing is under
our consideration.

5.0 Health Care Service :-
You are aware that SMC renders different health services under the
Central & State Govt. schemes, Matri Sadan at Dabgram Colony,
IPP-VIII (Extn.) project and Sri Niwas Sewa Sadan, organizing
various Health Check-up Camp & distributes medicine to the
outdoor patients free of cost. I can assure the Honble Councillors
that Siliguri Municipal Corporation will continue the said work in
the next financial year 2012-2013 and necessary Budget provision
has been made to continue Health Check-up camp in each ward @
Rs. 15,000/- per ward i.e. as per the year 2011-2012. You are also
aware that as a part of awareness campaign World Health Day,
World AIDS Day, Cancer Awareness Day also observed in a
befitting manner during the year 2011-2012 & the same would be
continued in the next year too.
~18~


I would also like to mention that Sri Goutam Deb, Honble
Minister-in-Charge, North Bengal Development Department, Govt.
of West Bengal has declared for another ambulance equipped with
modern amenities to Siliguri Municipal Corporation out of NBDD
fund.

5.1 IPP-VIII (Extn.) Project :-
It is needless to mention that Matri Sadan of Dabgram Colony No.
1 is being run by SMC to render Health services to BPL & APL
patients at a minimum cost by engaging specialist physician. You
are also aware that Ayusmati scheme has been implemented &
patients are treated free of charges under the said scheme.
Engagement of eye specialist and dentist at Matri Sadan, Dabgram
is under consideration. Apart from this action would be taken for
construction of a Truss at the roof of the building of Matri Sadan
along with some renovation work. J anani Surakshya scheme is
also running properly.
Apart from the above, the regular immunization programme &
Pulse- Polio programme, Health awareness campaign will also be
continued in the next financial year 2012-2013 & necessary Budget
provision has been made.


5.2 Setting up of a Super Speciality Hospital in Siliguri :-
We have decided to set up a Super Speciality Hospital having at
least 200 beds on the land & partly constructed building of SMC
within SMC area in the nature of PPP model & the proposal was
placed & passed in MIC meeting dt. 12.02.11 & approved in BOC
meeting on 15.02.11 to provide better health services with facilities
of heart surgery, transplantation of kidney, trauma and others to the
people in general & employees of Corporation, Councillors &
patients of BPL family within SMC area. Corporation will also be
economically benefitted. EOI was invited & Mission Hospital
(Durgapur Medical Centre) has been selected for the purpose
among the bidder agencies & the matter has been sent to Govt. of
West Bengal for approval.
6.0 Improvement of Environment :-
~19~
I am happy to announce that we have already started spraying of
eco-friendly insecticide at Dumping ground on experimental basis
to control mosquitoes, flies and other harmful insects.


Initiative has been taken for banning and control of plastic carry
bags & the same is continuing with the help of West Bengal
Pollution Control Board. Measures have also been taken to stop the
production of plastic carry bags within Siliguri Municipal
Corporation area with the active co-operation of FOCIN and other
business organizations. Several meetings were held with business
organization in presence of expert to explain the harmful effect of
plastic in our nature. Leaflets were also distributed and cartoon
characters were placed in different part of this town in festive
seasons for mass awareness on harmful effect of using plastic in our
daily life. Public in general came forward with positive response for
banning plastic carry bags. This measure is a continuous process
and invokes moral support from the Councillors of Siliguri
Municipal Corporation and from all corners of the people at large.
Siliguri Municipal Corporation has already awarded 25 different
Eco-friendly Puja Committees and spent a sum of Rs. 1,52,000/-
(One lac fifty two thousand) only and 5 nos. for Eco-friendly
Muharram procession granted Rs. 30,000/- (thirty thousand) only
during Muharram this year. Our expert team will judge the Puja
committees based on environment related parameters like
maximum utilization of eco-friendly materials (lights, earthen
plates etc.), eco-friendly idols, arrangement of dust bins, proper
drainage system, reduction in sound pollution, proper traffic
movement, provision of pure drinking water, use of eco-friendly
plates etc. in the next year 2012-2013 too.
Future Plan :
Apart from this an advertisement to be displayed in an every market
places regarding awareness for banning of plastic carry bags.
We have already taken up decision to promote awareness among
the School and College students with the help of active co-
operation of philanthropic organization. Lastly we have received a
major response from the public in General within the Siliguri
Municipal Corporation on this point.

7.0 Development of Industrial Estate:-
~20~
I do propose for Assessment of holdings and solve the problems of
Property Tax matter of Siliguri Industrial Estate as requested by the
entrepreneur of the Industrial Estate in the next financial year


2012-2013 and seek co-operation of the Councillors and
entrepreneurs.


8.0 Conservancy & Sanitation :-
We have always given priority to render better services to the
citizen of Siliguri in respect of conservancy and sanitation matter
and to make our city clean the following measure have been taken
so far.
I do propose to install another furnace in K.C. Burning Ghat
(Siliguri Municipal Corporation Electric Crematorium) and
renovation work of existing Burning Ghat and construction of
Bathroom during the year 2012-2013.

8.1 Solid Waste Management :-
~21~
You are aware that Solid Waste are collected from door to door &
the same are finally transported to the dumping ground owned by
SMC near Don Bosco School since the year 1955. The said
dumping ground is being used by SMC for disposal of Solid Waste.
Now the surrounding area has become thickly populated and
demand has been raised for shifting of the same to other place &
considering the demand of the local public an alternate land was
procured at Putimari (under Mouja Fulbari) a few years ago but no
project could be taken. In the Budget proposal for the year
2011-2012, it was pointed out that initiative has been taken from
Corporation end for utilization of Solid Waste of the Trenching
ground in Pyromax process preferably to generate electricity. In this
connection, I am happy to announce that in response to our request
for submission of EOI 2(two) renowned Company having
worldwide experience & reputation have come forward to clean the
garbage by applying modern technique and to generate electricity
by installation of necessary plant. The whole system will remain
pollution free. SMC will also earn a good amount therefrom. The
plant will be installed either at the existing Trenching ground near
Don Bosco School or at Putimari (both land belongs to SMC)
where the project would be viable and NOC for the project has been
sought from the Govt. & other authorities. In this connection I also
like to mention that the EOIs are under consideration and we are
waiting for final opinion of the experts (both technical & financial)


in this field. In this connection, I like to mention that we have
decided for construction of boundary wall at the existing Trenching
ground of SMC to protect the Municipal land as well as to prevent
spread of hazardous materials outside the specific area & the cost of
construction would be made out of fund available from NBDD
amounting to Rs. 1.10 crores assured by Honble Minister Sri
Goutam Deb. We have already taken initiative to spray domestic
garbage oil to destroy insects in the dumping ground.

8.2 General Cleanliness :-
I also like to point out that for regular cleaning of roads & drains,
washing of streets, anti-mosquito measure & other conservancy
service are being carried out by engaging about 2000 workers &
sweepers. Daily 57 nos. of vehicle are being used by SMC to carry
about 300 M.T. of garbage to Trenching ground. Besides that 2 nos.
Tipper, 4 nos. DI, 7 nos. Cesspool, 3 nos. Pay Loader & Fogging
machine are used regularly for conservancy services. In the last
year Budget speech it was stated that modern equipments would be
purchased but it was not possible due to paucity of fund in the
current year but our endeavour will continue.

8.3 Construction of Public Toilet :-
Construction of Public Toilet/Sulabh Complex at different places of
Siliguri is in our agenda. In the meantime 1(one) Sulabh Complex
has been constructed at Kanchanjungha Stadium by M/s. Enkon &
the same was mentioned in this Budget speech for the year
2011-2012. I am confident that remaining 2(two) Sulabh Complex
would be constructed by SMC as soon as land is available in the
year 2012-2013.
I do also propose to set up 3(three) Sulabh complexes in Hill Cart
Road, Sevoke road & Bidhan Road) in the next financial year
2012-2013. Toilet Block at Old Bus stand of Bidhan Market will be
inaugurated soon & its management will be handed over to the
Ward Committee of Ward No. XI. More will be constructed in
various places on available land, for which survey is going on.
8.4 Sterilization of Street Dogs :-
~22~
I am glad to announce that Sterilization of Street Dogs will be
conducted at the Sterilization Camp at Trenching Ground with the
active co-operation of Siliguri Animal Lovers Organisation and


Animal Link, Siliguri before its breeding time in the financial year
2012-13.
Free movement of dogs in the roads and their attack on the passers-
by is a burning problem but due to lack of infrastructure nothing
could be done as yet. I seek suggestion to solve the problem.
9.0 Trade License :-
You are aware that we have taken initiative to simplify the
procedure to obtain Trade License from SMC and I am happy to
mention that revenue income from this source has been increased.
In the year 2011-2012, 5581 nos. new trade license has been issued
& 16178 nos. trade license have been renewed so far. Revenue
income from Trade license in last 2(two) years along with current
year is given below :-
Sl.
No.
Particulars
Amount 2009-
2010
2010-2011
2011-2012 (Upto
1
st
March 2012)
1.
Trade
License
Fees
Rs. 1,06,00,530/-
Rs. 1,66,82,790/-
(including arrear
of previous year
of
Rs. 40,00,000/-)
Rs. 1,68,55,659/-

In order to enrich the fund of Siliguri Municipal, Corporation from
this source I do propose for revision of the existing rate of Trade
License fees & Hoarding fees from the year 2012-2013 (which is in
force since the year 2000) & seek co-operation of the Councillors,
Business Organisation & Public in general in the matter.
I also like to mention that our initiative to remove unauthorized
Hoarding from Siliguri will be continued.
Considering that there is many more left without having trade
license for their business, special drive will be taken to issue new
trade license and renewal of the same by holding camps in different
business area/markets in the month of April, 2012 and for running
business without the valid trade license penal measures will be
taken as per law.

10.0 Bhawans & Guest Houses :-
~23~
You are aware that SMC runs 5(five) Guest Houses with a view to
accommodate common people in minimum & reasonable rent.


As committed in the Budget proposal for the year 2011-2012, our
endeavour for expansion of Siliguri Atithi Niwas, Kolkata at the
adjacent land would be continued under PPP model or otherwise.
The whole matter is under process & it is expected that project
would be started in the year 2012-2013. In the current financial year
2011-2012, room rent of the Guest Houses of SMC have been
increased in order to render better services to the citizen as well to
cope with expenditure to run such Guest House including cost of its
maintenance.
I am also happy to mention that action has been taken to ensure that
supply of tiffin & food to the boarders of the Guest House at
Kolkata on payment and I do hope that we would be able to extend
the service since 1
st
April, 2012 at reasonable fixed rate.
It is to be noted that Youth Service Deptt., Govt. of West Bengal
has expressed their views not to extend the lease tenure of the
Pantho Niwas, Kolkata at Moulali Yuba Kendra from the next year
2012-2013.
11.0 Building Matter :-
~24~
In the Budget proposal for 2011-2012, I mentioned that there is
necessity of amendment of the existing Building Rules of SMC to
overcome the disadvantages of construction of residential building
in small plots & other construction within SMC area. Initiative in
the matter has been taken and after thorough discussion in the
Mayor-in-Council meeting, a draft has been prepared which is
pending for approval in the MIC meeting and BOC meeting and
final approval of the Govt. Another matter deserves to be
mentioned that necessary action would be taken to prevent illegal
construction within SMC area. I also like to point out that
implementation of Promoter Act within SMC area is under
consideration & it is expected that we would be able to adopt the
same in the year 2012-2013. In this connection I like to announce
that the cess imposed by the State Govt. in the year 2007 for
sanctioning of Building plan which was effected from 1
st
February,
2012 within SMC area is being withdrawn to lighten the burden of
common people of Siliguri and the amount already received so far
will be refunded. List of installation of illegal towers has been
prepared and action will be taken soon. I further announce that we


already discussed to review the present fees on several heads to
issue building plan and the revised fees to reduce burden will be
declared soon. All the land and buildings of SMC left unused will
be utilized to earn revenue.
It is to be noted that at present for sanction of any plan for high rise
buildings and some other buildings rain water harvesting and
plantation of trees has become mandatory.
12.0 Education & Culture :-
As committed in the Budget proposal for the year 2011-2012, the
Siliguri Municipal Corporation will continue its function to
improve healthy atmosphere in the field of education & culture in
the next year 2012-2013. We are also in constant touch with
Education Deptt., Govt. of West Bengal to enlarge the scope of
education & culture in Siliguri Municipal Corporation area.
I do propose for holding Vivek Mela on the occasion of 150
th
Birth
Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda in April, 2012.
12.1 Setting up of New Schools and Upgradation of Schools :-
So far the matter regarding upgradation of schools in the SMC area
is concerned, proposal was sought for upgradation of 6(six) schools
within SMC area. But we have received necessary papers from the
schools namely 1. Bani Mandir J unior High School 2. Sishu Siksha
Niketan Hindi Primary School & the same has been forwarded to
the Govt. Proposal for remaining 4(four) schools will be forwarded
after receipt of necessary papers in the next financial year
2012-2013.



12.2 Youth Festival, Siliguri Utsav and Ward Utsav :-


i. Ward Utsav of most of the wards of SMC has been successfully
organized during the year 2011-2012.
ii. Siliguri Municipal Corporation has organized Youth Festival 2011
(Municipal level) on 3
rd
& 4
th
December, 2011 in association with
Youth Service Deptt., Govt. of West Bengal in a befitting manner.
~25~
iii. Puroshree award was given to the winners of Central Cultural
competition held on 20
th
September to 26
th
September, 2011 and
Puja issue of the bi-annual magazine of SMC Purobarta was
published on the same occasion.



12.3 Observance of Birth Anniversary of Eminent Personalities and
other National Days :-

During the year 2011-2012 we observed the following programme
in a befitting manner.

i. Netaji Birthday
ii. Birthday of Masterda Surya Sen
iii. Birthday of Rabindranath Tagore
iv. Birthday of Kaji Nazrul Islam
v. Birthday of Munshi Prem Chand
vi. Birthday of Pandit Iswar Chandra Vidyasagar
vii. 150
th
Birth Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda
viii. Birthday of Mahatma Gandhi
ix. Rabindra Tiradhan Diwas
x. Independence Day
xi. Republic Day
xii. Birthday of poet Bhanu Bhakta
xiii. Great footballer Gostho Paul
xiv. Observance of the day of sacrifice of Great Martyr Khudiram Bose


12.4 Reception of Meritorious Students :-
Siliguri Municipal Corporation awarded reception to the
meritorious students and distinguished players in a colourful
programme held on 17
th
December, 2011.

12.5 Mid-day Meal Programme :-

Mid-day Meal programme is going on within SMC area satisfactory
& as committed in the Budget proposal for the year 2011-2012, the
said programme has been extended to the Upper Primary Schools
within SMC area. A table showing the details of the programme
with number of students covered is given below :-





~26~


Darjeeling District
Particulars
No. of
Schools
No. of
Students
covered
under
MDM
No. of
months
Yearly no.
of students
covered
under
MDM
Remarks
Primary
School
(I-IV)

Upper
Primary
School
(V-VIII)
80



32
20331



26231
12



9
243972



314772




MDM started
in J uly 2011
Total 112 46562 558744
Jalpaiguri District
Particulars
No. of
Schools
No. of
Students
covered
under
MDM
No. of
months
Yearly no.
of students
covered
under
MDM
Remarks
Primary
School
(I-IV)

Bridge
Course
School

Junior
High
School

Upper
Primary
School
25



2



6



8
7821



145



900



7700
12



1



6



9
93852



145



5400



69300




MDM to be
started from
March 2012

MDM started
from October
2011

MDM started
from J uly 2011
Total 41 16566 1,68,697

I do propose for construction of 40 nos. of Mid-day meal kitchen
shed in Primary and Upper Primary Schools within SMC area.
I do also propose for installation of fire protection device in 150
nos. of Primary and Upper Primary Schools within SMC area.

~27~




12.6 Nagarik Convention :-
Nagarik Convention will be held in the month of May, 2012 and
subsequent thereto.

12.7 Setting up of Art Academy and Art Gallery :-
Proposal to set up an Art Academy was mentioned in the Budget
proposal for the year 2011-2012, but due to short span of time after
the passing of the Budget estimate for the year 2011-2012 the work
could not be taken up. However matter would be taken up in the
next year 2012-2013 for the promotion of creative artifacts of the
local artists.

12.8 Fostering of Cultural Heritage :-
Our aims & objects on fostering the cultural heritage of different
linguistic group of Siliguri will be continued in the year 2012-2013.

12.9 Publication of Puro Barta :-
It is already known to you that the present Board of SMC took
initiative as soon as it assumed charge in the year 2009 for regular
publication of the Municipal magazine Purobarta and I am glad
to inform you that total 3(three) issues have been published since
the year 2010. In the current financial year 2011-2012 only one
issue was published in October 2011 & other which was due to be
published in April 2011 was not possible due to Assembly Poll of
West Bengal in May 2011. Publication of Purobarta will
continue in the next year 2012-2013.

12.10 Setting up of statue of eminent personalities :-
I am happy to inform you that we have decided to set up a Bronze
statue of the father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi at the 4(four)
point crossing of Hasmi Chawk area, replace the statue of Swami
Vivekananda at J hankar More and take initiative to decorate and
illuminate Vivekananda square (Sevoke More) in a befitting
manner with portrait and message of Swami Vivekananda.

13.0 Games & Sports :-
In the financial year 2011-2012, SMC has successfully
implemented the following programmes for promotion of Sports &
Games within SMC area.
~28~
Sports equipments have been distributed amongst the various sports
organizations and wards.


Inter coaching camp football tournament has been organized in
association with SMKP.
73
rd
National J unior & Youth Table Tennis Championship was
organized by SMC in association with SJ DA & North Bengal Table
Tennis Association.
Renovation work of Siliguri Indoor Stadium was extensively taken
up in the year 2011-2012 for which a sum of Rs. 26 lacs has been
spent. And Sri Goutam Deb, Honble Minister-in-Charge, North
Bengal Development Department, Govt. of West Bengal, has
assured to grant the entire amount.
Distinguished and promising sports persons/players have been
felicitated by SMC.
Grants have extended to various sports bodies from time to time for
their efforts in organizing school level and district level sports
meets at Siliguri. We have organized Inter Ward T20 Cricket
tournament of Borough III and shall be extending the said
tournament to the other Boroughs and finally organize a Central
tournament during the current year.
We have decided to set up Borough level football coaching camps
for nurturing new talents.
We have decided to impart badminton coaching to under privileged
children at SMC Indoor Stadium in association with Himalayan
Sports & Educational Society.
We shall be organizing Chess coaching camp at the SMC Indoor
Stadium.
We are looking forward to hosting of an International Table Tennis
Championship at SMC Indoor Stadium soon.
Siliguri has seen a rise in sporting activities recently. The Kho-Kho
and Kabaddi nationals under PYKA, the 2
nd
Division I-league, State
~29~
Body building competition and various other events have made
Siliguri proud. The installation of flood lights at Kanchanjungha
Krirangan with the assistance of Sri Goutam Deb, Honble
Minister, North Bengal Development Department and the initiatives
taken by Sri Madan Mitra, Honble Minister of Sports, Govt. of
West Bengal shall go a long way in bringing several important
sporting events to Siliguri, the benefits whereof shall percolate to
the people of Siliguri.


Provision has been made for the development of various sports
grounds within SMC area.
It has been decided that a modern climbing wall would be
constructed at Surya Sen Park to encourage the future climbers of
the city.

14.0 Self Employment Programme :-
We have already taken initiative for skill development of young
generation to make them Self Employed through Govt. & Non-
Govt. organization (Both Central & State Govt.) & other institution.
Bank authority has been requested for sanctioning of bank loan to
the small & micro entrepreneurs.

15.0 Market Complex :-
We have given stress for revenue generation from the existing
markets within SMC area. In order to develop those markets as well
as setting up of new markets and for arrangement of suitable
amenities the fund is necessary. Collection of revenue specially
from toll tax was gradually diminishing due to absence of man
power and other administrative problems. In order to raise revenue
from 7(seven) markets of SMC (namely Bidhan Market, Town
Station Market, Ambedkar Market, Gate Bazar Market, Rathkhola
Market, Salugara Market etc.), tender was invited and collection
has already been started from those market. A table showing the
increase of revenue generation in last 2(two) financial years is
given below.

Sl. No. Name of the Market Tax Collection
in the year
2010-2011
Tax
Collection in
the year
2011-2012
1. Bidhan Market 8,17,606/- 9,40,847/-
2. V.S. Market (Ground floor) 1,65,491 3,82,854/-
3. V.S. Market
(1
st
floor)
81,707/- 1,64,277/-
4. V.S. Market
(2
nd
floor)
1,73,354/- 2,57,058/-
~30~
Apart from this, toll collection during the year 2011-2012 from all
the markets has been raised to Rs. 8,67,685/- (Previous year


collection was Rs. 1,62,277/-) and collection of rent from Pantho
Niwas (Stall) during the year 2011-2012 (upto Feb2012) is
Rs. 55,791/-.

15.1 Book Market near Children Park :-
Initiative has been taken to construct and start book market near
children park on SMC land. The matter is under process.

15.2 Development of D.I. Fund Land & Market :-
It is known to you that the land of D.I. Fund market has not yet
been handed over to the SMC by D.I. Fund authority. As a result of
which we are not in a position to take up development work in the
said market. It is also to be noted that there is litigation in the matter
of Fish Market under D.I. Fund Market. The case is pending before
the Honble High Court of Calcutta. We have to persue the matter
to vacate the case.
However collection of revenue towards toll & revenue from the D.I.
Fund market is being done by the permanent employees of the
Corporation & total revenue collected from D.I. Fund market
during the year 2011-2012 is Rs. 2,20,789/- (up to February 2012).

16.0 Improvement of Traffic Management System :-
I have already mentioned that for improvement of Traffic
Management, Siliguri Traffic Police shall have to take action to
prevent encroachment of footpath, to regulate the movement of
Bus, Auto Rickshaw as per route permit and restriction which has
already been imposed for movement of Rickshaws, should also be
strictly followed. Declaration of some of the area of SMC as No
Parking zone is under consideration and matter would be
discussed with the local administration soon. I do also propose for
sanction of at least 100 posts of Green Police for Siliguri Municipal
Corporation and the same would be forwarded to the Govt. for
approval. I would also like to mention that necessary measure
would be taken for easy thoroughfare of public and slow moving
vehicle below the flyover in both the lanes from Siliguri P.S. to
Alupatty. I do also propose for construction of 3(three) nos. foot-
over bridges at Air View More, Panitanki More and Siliguri
J unction in the year 2012-2013.
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Finally, I seek co-operation & suggestion from the citizen to solve
the traffic problem & transportation problem of Siliguri.

17.0 Mediclaim for Councillors and employees of Corporation :-
I am happy to mention that the Mediclaim facility for the
Councillors & employees of this Corporation will be continued and
required fund has been allotted in the Budget estimates of SMC for
the year 2012-2013.

18.0 Measures for employees welfare :-
i. I am happy to mention that during the year 2011-2012 wages of the
Daily wage workers and contractual workers of SMC has been
increased with effect from 01.09.2011 and 01.02.2012 respectively.
ii. We have taken measures to fill up the vacant post of SMC through
promotion and new recruitment.
iii. GSLI scheme which is in force since the year 1996 for the benefit
of the employees will continue in the next year 2012-2013.
iv. I do also propose for Universal Health Insurance Policy for all
Daily wage conservancy workers & contract basis workers engaged
in SMC from the year 2012-2013.
v. EPF would be implemented for the daily wage workers working in
SMC from the next year 2012-2013.

19.0 Finalisation of the list of casual workers of SMC :-
In the speech of Budget proposal for the year 2011-2012, I
mentioned that 2(two) lists consisting 764 casual employees of
SMC with effect from 01.01.92 to 31.12.98 & 01.01.99 to 31.12.08
was forwarded to the Govt. but no approval has yet been received.
However, the Govt. would be requested further to accord necessary
sanction.

20.1 Habitable Quarter for Harijan employees & Improvement of
infrastructure of Harijan Primary School :-
Renovation of the existing Harijan Quarter of SMC is in our
agenda, this year the work could not be done due to non-availability
of fund. In the next year 2012-2013, I do propose for construction
of new Harijan Quarter in Ward No. 5,13,14 & 24 & necessary
Budget provision has been made.
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21.0 Municipal Organisational Development :-

21.1 Construction of new office building :-


I am glad to inform you that measure has been taken for
construction of new administrative building (G +6) of SMC in the
land adjacent of the Central office at a project cost of Rs. 32.46
crores. Sri Goutam Deb, Honble MIC, North Bengal Development
Department laid the foundation stone of the building on 24
th
March,
2012 and M.A. Deptt., Govt. of West Bengal has already released
Rs. 2 crores for the purpose of 1
st
phase of work. I convey my
heartfelt thanks to Honble MIC, J anab Firhad Hakim for his
assistance and Sri Goutam Deb for his initiative.

21.2 Sanction & Recruitment of required number of Technical &
other staff in SMC :-
In the Budget proposal for the year 2011-2012, I already mentioned
that Staff Pattern of SMC has not yet been completed by the Govt.
and a formal proposal for sanction of some technical posts was also
sent during the year 2009-2010 but no sanction has yet been
received. We expect that Govt. sanction in the matter would be
available during the year 2012-2013.
I also like to point out that huge number of experienced staff of
SMC has been retired during the year 2009-2010 & 2010-2011 &
2011-2012 and as a result of which it has become difficult to run
the Corporation with huge shortage of staff.
We have noticed that the State Govt. has taken a policy for
appointment of retired employees on contract basis in order to
maintain the day-to-day work. The matter is also in our
consideration to fill up the vacuum due to retirement of experienced
staff in last 3 years.
Engagement of a Revenue Officer to deal in revenue matter of SMC
is also in our consideration and Govt. would be moved to accord
sanction of the post.

21.3 Geographic Information System :-
In the Budget speech I already mentioned our views on GIS system
for strategic planning including land planning and management and
our initiative in the matter would be continued.

21.4 Audit & Accounts :-
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I am glad to mention that Audit of Accounts of MC up to the year
2010-2011 has been completed by the Examiner of Local Accounts


(LBA) West Bengal and preparation of Balance Sheet for the year
2007-2008 and 2008-2009 has been completed as per guideline of
the Govt. and the preparation of Balance sheet for the year 2009-
2010 is under process.

21.5 Citizens Charter :-
Our commitment to the citizen of Siliguri to render time bound &
quality services to the rate payer in respect of issuance of Trade
License, Mutation, Sanction of Site Plan & Building Plan & Birth
& Death Certificate will be continued in the year 2012-2013 too.

21.6 Moreover, I like to add that the Corporation reserves its right to
function as per provision of Section 97 and 98 of the West Bengal
Municipal Corporation Act, 2006 as far as may be practicable.

22.0 Proposal for increase of earning of the Corporation :-
I have confident enough that Honble Councillors will admit that in
order to render regular civic service of SMC specially in the field of
conservancy, street lighting, construction & improvement of roads,
drains & culverts and for construction of market complex & other
developmental activities, there is necessity of enough fund and I do
propose to raise fund from the following source.

22.1 Stress on Collection of Property Tax :-
Like the year 2011-2012, stress would be given for collection of
arrear Property Tax and seek co-operation of all Councillors and
employees and above all from the rate payers to extend their hands
of co-operation to render best services to the citizen of Siliguri.
Stress also be given for collection of arrear Property Tax for Govt.
holdings. Another matter which deserves to be mentioned that
General Assessment of Holdings within SMC area is pending since
the year 2003-2004 on account of various reason. However it is
expected that West Bengal State Valuation Board would publish the
list of General Assessment of Holdings soon and action would be
taken for implementation as soon as the list is published from the
end of West Bengal State Valuation Board.

22.2 Collection of Property Tax from the newly assessed Holdings :-
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After discussion with West Bengal Valuation Board Interim
Assessment of Holdings within SMC area has been started since the
year 2010-2011 and the same is continuing. I am also glad to


inform you that Interim Assessment of 9778 nos. of new Holdings
has been completed in last 2(two) financial years & scope of
revenue generation would be Rs. 68,34,230/- per year.
22.3 Collection of Stay Tax :-
You are aware that SMC collects Stay Tax from the Boarder of
various Hotels and Lodges. In the year 2011-2012 Rs. 3,62,700/-
has been collected so far. It is to noted that at present Stay Tax is
collected @ Rs. 2/- for Non-AC room & Rs. 5/- for AC room per
Day and as such I do propose for restructuring of Stay Tax fees
from the next year 2012-2013.
22.4 Income generation from Corporation Property :-
You are aware that SMC has taken initiative to raise income from
its own Property viz. Guest Houses, Market Complex, Parks and
other Properties of SMC since the year 2010-2011. Like previous
year I also welcome the private enterprises to come forward and
take up development works in Municipal land and properties in PPP
model.
22.5 Collection of revenue from Cable Operator :-
The proposal was given in this Budget Estimate for the year
2011-2012 but the same has not been introduced. However the
matter will be decided after taking decision in MIC/BOC meeting.

23.0 Infrastructure Development by raising loan from West Bengal
Municipal Development Fund :-

In the Budget speech for the year 2011-2012, I mentioned that a
Trust was formed by Govt. of West Bengal with a view to extend
financial support to the Urban Local Bodies for development of
Infrastructure. In the current financial year we expect that fund will
be available from this source and I am happy to announce that Rs. 2
crores has been sanctioned by West Bengal Municipal
Development Fund for infrastructural development of Municipal
Area and which will be available soon.

24.0 REVENUE BUDGET

According to Revised Budget for the year 2011-2012 Revenue
Budget is placed for your consideration.
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25.0 TAX REVENUE

I like to mention that in the year 2010-2011income on account of
Tax Revenue was Rs. 6.24 crores and in the year 2011-2012
Revised Budget the amount is Rs. 6.63 crores and Proposed Budget
for the year 2012-2013 is Rs. 10.79 crores.

26.0 NON-TAX REVENUE

While preparing Budget Proposal for the year 2012-2013
importance is given on collection of non-tax revenue like mutation
fees, income from laying of underground cable line, installation of
mobile tower, plan passing fees, sale of forms, etc.
Proposed income on account of non-tax revenue for the year 2012-
2013 is Rs. 19.58 crores and in the revised budget for the year
2011-2012 it is Rs. 14.75 crores.

27.0 A pen-picture is depicted according to Revised Budget of 2011-
2012:

Financial Year 2011-2012

Revised Revenue Receipt Rs. 536,814,100.00

Revised Revenue Expenditure Rs. 504,591,100.00

Revenue Surplus Rs. 32,223,000.00
Proposed Revenue Budget for the year 2012-2013

Revenue Receipt Rs. 734,042,000.00

Revenue Expenditure Rs. 662,129,400.00

Surplus Rs. 71,912,600.00

28.0 EXPENDITURE
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Detail of total expenditure on different heads in the Budget
Proposal for the year 2012-2013 is given. In the year 2010-2011
total expenditure was incurred Rs. 78.78 crores and in the Revised
Budget for the year 2011-2012 it is Rs. 91.71 crores. In the
Proposed Budget for the year 2012-2013 an amount of Rs. 147.82
crores has been taken into account for expenditure which is placed
for your approval.


29.0 CONCLUSION
Earnest efforts have been made to draw a balance between revenue
earnings and endues of funds by prioritizing the need of the hour. In
consideration of rising non-plan expenditures co-ordinated action
plan is required to plug the gap between earning and expenditure so
that resources are generated for undertaking developmental works.
It was our heartfelt endeavour for development of infrastructure,
special attention for the poor, helpless and distress women, to
enlarge the scope of resource mobilization from own source,
improvement of civic amenities, to restore healthy cultural
atmosphere, to improve the traffic management system, making the
city pollution free and above all employment generation taking co-
operation from all concern of society. All efforts would be taken to
run transparent Municipal administration.
I convey my thanks to the Govt. of India, Honble Chief Minister,
Govt. of West Bengal, Honble Minister-in-Charge, Municipal
Affairs & Urban Development Department, Honble Minister-in-
Charge, North Bengal Development Department, Govt. of West
Bengal and other Honble Ministers, MPs and MLAs who have
extended their hands of co-operation for the development of this
town.
You will admit that there is problem in the process of urbanization
of Siliguri due to its speedy growth of population in last 3 (three)
decades. Still there is potential of the town due to its topographical
importance and I firmly believe that we shall be able to overcome
all difficulties with the co-operation of all our Councillors, Leader
of the opposition, Officers, employees, Print & Electronic media &
people of all corner of the Society.
I appeal before you all to proceed jointly to achieve our target to
make Siliguri a prosperous city.
I seek your support and approval to implement the Budget proposal
for the year 2012-2013 and to adopt the same.



Place Siliguri (Gangotri Datta)
Placed on 28
th
March, 2012 Mayor
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Siliguri Municipal Corporation