Wild grass, poor infra agonise avid readers

Naina Mishra

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, August 12

Overgrown bushes near cafeteria, cracks in ceiling of corridors of extension library and non-functional air conditioners in reading room present a picture of neglect at the Punjab University Regional Centre (PURC), Ludhiana.

Members of the extension library have been facing ‘testing times’ as they feel authorities lack will to address their grievances. Open space around the cafeteria which is often used by students to discuss their ideas has transformed into an abode of wild insects due to overgrown bushes.

“In less than five minutes, one will start itching his hands and arms because of abundant mosquitoes. Who knows there could be snakes or wild insects? We have to sit here as there is no other place to discuss notes. This place was once spick and span when the canteen used to function,” said Karan Rajput, a member of the extension library.

Another member Dilawar Singh said, “There are four air conditioners in reading room out of which two are not working. Authorities say that they lack funds, however, we feel they lack will. We are not allowed to enter premises of the law campus. We got ACs repaired, water container cleaned from our own pocket.”

Moreover, ban on parking of four-wheelers by library members have baffled them. Students said the library was set up way before the law and MBA campus and the ban should be revoked.

Ravi Inder Singh, Director, PU Regional Centre said, “The area around the cafeteria is in my knowledge. The gardeners will clean the area soon. Very soon wi-fi facility will be made available and the file has already been submitted in the university. The grant has been sanctioned.”