50% of State budget spent on 30,000 govt employees: CM

Remaining budget for development activities of 6 lakhs population of Sikkim


Sikkim Express | www.sikkimexpress.com

PAKYONG, July 31: Chief Minister Pawan Chamling today dedicated the new fire station-cum-staff quarters to the people of Pakyong during a function held here.
The six-storied fire station has been constructed at a cost of Rs. 146.17 lakhs with a road level garage for two fire tenders along with quarters for the firemen.
In his inaugural address, the Chief Minister said that the State government has been going on an infrastructural building drive for the people of Sikkim. Such infrastructures are meant for the people and the people should protect them as their own property, he said.
Regarding the fire station, Chamling said fire stations should not be limited to fight fire outbreaks only but should also conduct public awareness campaigns on fire hazards and safety rules on a routine basis.
Giving his attention to government employees, the Chief Minister urged the employees to work sincerely from 10 am to 4 pm to serve the people as the employees have been well paid by the Sikkim government as compared to other States.
In Sikkim, fifty percent of the State budget is spent on 30,000 government employees and the remaining fifty percent is used for developmental activities for more than 6 lakh population of the State, he said. Hence, State government officials should strive to work for the people and not to harass the public when they come for official works, he said.
The Chief Minister also took the occasion to highlight the government’s plans for Pakyong subdivision. He said that along with the first airport of Sikkim, a world class new township will be coming up in Pakyong along with various other projects, he said.
People must support from their side and give land for the projects, Chamling said. He further informed that the survey of railway line from Rangpo to Gangtok has been completed and the proposal will be sent to Planning Commission for approval.
After inaugurating the fire station, the Chief Minister addressed a public meeting at New Shopping Complex, Pakyong bazaar.
In his address to the local people, Chamling assured to fulfill their demands for parking facilities, good drainage and sewerage system, children park, amusement park and a public auditorium.