MP Governor concerned over poor condition of roads

Bhopal, Oct 23 (UNI) Madhya Pradesh Governor Balram Jakhar today expressed concern over ''poor roads'' in the state capital.

Talking to newsmen during a get-together 'Vijaydashmi Milan' at Raj Bhawan here, he said he had undertaken a surprise visit of certain parts of the city to acquaint himself with the problems of people.

He, however, described as ''ridiculous'' reports in a section of press that he was ''underground'' for two hours from 1500 hrs yesterday, about which even local police had shown ignorance.

The visit was also not listed on the day's official itinerary of the Governor.

''I am the guardian of people. It is my duty to protect their interests and mitigate their sufferings,'' Dr Jakhar said.

''I am not a prisoner that I cannot go out on my own,'' he quipped and declared ''I will go again and again, meet people.

Nobody can stop me. Nobody should have any objection.'' ''I decided to move in the city as an ordinary citizen and that is why I had gone without escorts and pilot car. I wanted to see for myself the roads, traffic and apprise myself with the grievances of the people.'' ''During my drive in the city, I found chaotic traffic, roads in bad shape......,'' and pointed towards Mayor Sunil Sood to add ''Ask him, didn't I bring it to his notice?''.

Earlier, two-hour-long 'Agyatvas (period of absence)' of the Governor without security remained a topic of discussion in the town.

Rajbhawan sources admitted that the Governor went to a colony under construction in Trilanga area of the state capital in a vehicle yesterday. He was accompanied by Congress leader and former minister Mukesh Nayak.

Governor's secretary K K Singh said Dr Jakhar had reserved yesterday for himself. He met the Chief Minister at 1730 hours yesterday.

UNI