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January 4, 2007
An Interview with Haji W.S. Abdur Rahman, Chairman, Kayalpatnam Municipality -
who began his five-year term in office on October 28, 2006
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Kayalpatnam.com>Congratulations on your election as the Chairman of Kayalpatnam Municipality.
How did you decide to take part in the elections?
Haji W.S. Abdur Rahman>Welcome. It was a sudden decision. I was on my way to Hong Kong when a few
people contacted me and asked me to contest the election.
Kayalpatnam.com>Were you disappointed that you had to fight other candidates in Ward No.5 - even
after Kayalpatnam Aikiya Jamath had announced you as their nominee for Chairman?
Haji W.S. Abdur Rahman>I am not disappointed at all. I appreciate the contest. It is a democratic exercise.
Kayalpatnam.com>As the Chairman of Kayalpatnam Municipality, what would be your priorities?
Haji W.S. Abdur Rahman>I would list the following as our priorities:
- Drinking water problem
- Street lights
- Good roads
- Garbage clearance
- Proper drainage system
Kayalpatnam.com>Regular water supply seems to be the major concern of the people. How do you plan to
address this issue?
Haji W.S. Abdur Rahman>It is true regular water supply is a major problem in Kayalpatnam. Currently -
on average - 60 Litres of water per head is being supplied. Even that is supplied on only a few days of
the week. Our vision is towards providing 24 hours water supply and raise the per head supply to
about 90 Litres of water.
There are a few proposals that are on the table to address this issue. One of it is to capture the water
that goes waste to the sea and bring it into the Kayalpatnam water supply system.
Currently there are about 14 tanks for storage of water. Another one is nearing completion at
Magdoom Palli (200,000 litres capacity). The combined storage capacity as of now is about 1.6 Million
Litres.
Kayalpatnam.com>There was a recent outbreak of Chikungunya in Kayalpatnam - a clear
indication of lack of proper hygiene and sanitation. How do you plan to prevent future outbreaks of such
diseases?
Haji W.S. Abdur Rahman>Garbage clearance is another serious concern. Having lived in Hong Kong
for over 4 decades, I have first hand experience of how efficient a garbage clearance system can be. We need
to have a proper garbage collection as well as disposal process. Recently - a new lorry has been put in
service by the Municipality to collect garbage. We are looking at suggestions on managing the collected garbage
(dumping ground). It is an important work. We probably also need more staff.
Kayalpatnam.com>Kayalpatnam beach now sports a new look. There has been this demand from many
to separate the beach into at least two areas - one reserved for men and the other for women. Firstly, what
are your views on this and secondly - will you take this up with the Municipality?
Haji W.S. Abdur Rahman>Beach segregation is an important issue. For many years, we have had a
system of separate areas for men and women. We will work to bring this system back - if necessary,
with consultation with the government. Admission to the beach would probably again be of free of charge
(as the contract period for collection of charges ends in March and may not be renewed).
Kayalpatnam.com>There is this general view that most of the governmental departments - including
municipalities - are corrupt. What steps you will take to improve this image?
Haji W.S. Abdur Rahman>Corruption has grown deep roots. I see it as my duty to see it checked.
I also see that task (of eliminating corruption) as the primary reason behind my unanimous election as
the Chairman. I will do my best.
Kayalpatnam.com>There is generally lack of involvement of the people in the functioning of
municipality. For example, not many are aware what is the size of the municipality budget, how the money is
spent etc. Will you take steps to get people involved in planning the budget and in improvement of
municipal administration?
Haji W.S. Abdur Rahman>Yes, true. People need to be more involved. Municipality's annual income is
about Rs.1.25 Crores of which it spends about Rs.1.10 crores.
Kayalpatnam.com>As you begin your five-year term in office, what message you have for the people of
Kayalpatnam?
Haji W.S. Abdur Rahman>Firstly, I request their full co-operation.
Secondly, it has been just 2 months since we assumed office. This was the period that saw heavy
rains lashing Kayalpatnam - posing serious problems. We handled it in the most efficient way. It was
totally unexpected and had put on hold a few issues we wanted to address right away.
Thirdly, I would like to tell the people I am not here to run away after 6 months. Insha Allah,
I will complete my full five-year term serving the town and stand again in the next election for another
five year term!
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