UP govt launches toll-free helpline to address civic complaints

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LUCKNOW: A K Sharma, Minister of Energy and Urban Development, Government of Uttar Pradesh, on July 6, launched a state-wide toll-free number for the smooth operation of civic amenities, successful implementation of programmes, and effective reviewing of complaints in the municipal bodies of the state. The state government aims to quickly review and resolve complaints related to drinking water, sewers, cleanliness and other civic services with the launch of the toll-free number – 1533.

Through this helpline number, calls of citizens will reach the established call centre and the problem will then be looked after and resolved. If any complaint/problem is not attended to or solved at the local level, it will then be transferred to the Dedicated Command and Control Centre (DCCC) situated in state’s capital Lucknow and action will be taken against the officials concerned for delay in action.

Launching the service, Sharma said that in the first phase, the toll-free number will be started in all the 17 municipal corporations. After that, it will soon be launched in other areas in a phased manner. He mentioned that the system will run 24×7 in municipal corporations in coming time. He added that it is mandatory for every municipal corporation to listen to and quickly resolve the complaints of its citizens. He also noted that if in any case where control room of a municipal corporation does not pick the call, and the call is transferred to the DCCC, then the government will fix the accountability of the concerned municipal corporations and officers after seeking clarification.

Complaints coming to the control rooms of all municipal corporations and their disposal will be monitored at the level of Director of the local bodies. Sharma noted that redressal of public grievances gives great power to democracy. He asked officials at municipal corporations to bring changes in their style of functioning and to use modern technology to bring this system of prompt address of complaints into practice.