Category: TCB

#News: Go ‘smart’ with LED streetlights in Chandigarh!

If all goes well, We will soon have “smart” LED streetlights in Chandigarh. Yes, you read that right! The Municipal Corporation of Chandigarh has decided to replace its existing streetlights with new smart ones.

So what is so special about these LED Streetlights in Chandigarh?

LED streetlights in Chandigarh

Well, first of all, these new street lights are said to be more energy efficient than the existing ones. The total energy consumed by the existing streetlights is 2,31,33,710 kilowatt per hour per annum. Further, the total electricity bill paid by the municipal corporation is Rs 12.64 crore annually.

If the reports are to be believed, the installation of these smart LED streetlights in Chandigarh will reduce this amount by 50-60%.

That is not all. Further, these street lights will have a centralized control and monitoring system (CCMS) facility to control the street lighting system of the civic body. With this, all the streetlights would be switched on and off at the flick of a single switch by using state of the art GPRS technology. Dimming of individual or group of lights at late night as required, informing the on-off status and generating alert during fault can also be done very easily.

What is the cost of the project?

LED streetlights in Chandigarh

There are approximately 48,000 light points in Chandigarh, including sodium vapor lamp, metal halide, CFL, and FIL. So the entire cost of the project comes around to Rs. 50 crore. However, fret not. The entire cost of the project, including the maintenance charges and infrastructure development charges, would be borne by Energy Efficient Services Limited (EESL). Thus, the Municipal Corporation of Chandigarh will not be financing this footfall. Further, in a case of any defect, the EESL will rectify it in a maximum time period of 48 hours.

So how long do we have to wait to go the smart way?

Well, it depends on go ahead. The agenda for a go-ahead to this project will be tabled today at the House meeting. After all the details have been ironed out, the project will follow soonafter.
Diarrhea outbreak in Sector-18: Who is to blame?

You have to be living under a rock to not have read about this. Recently an outbreak of diarrhea has taken place in Sector-18. More than 200 people are ill. And the reason? Contamination of a water pipeline.

Apparently, the source was a water pipe in the rear of Shiv Misthan Bhandar Sector-18 where sewage had entered into the pipeline. Really?! Even though the officials claim that the area has been identified and repaired, cases continue to flow in.

Diarrhea outbreak in Sector-18

However, my problem with the issue is not the lapse. My problem is that why in the first place are sewage pipes and drinking water pipes laid so close? Just imagine- a small leakage had the whole sector rushing to hospitals. At the beginning, no one even knew what was wrong. Everybody assumed that they had fallen sick because of the sudden change in the weather. And thus it went on undetected for so long.

It was just the residents’ luck that it was detected and the symptoms of the patients range from mild to moderate. The last time we had such an incident, many people lost their lives. Though that incident took place almost a decade ago, a repeat of the same raises serious questions. Questions regarding standards of sanitation and proper planning.

These are incidents that can be easily avoided by proper planning and prudence by the Chandigarh Administration. However, such incidents which come to fore time and again shows the apathy of the officials towards the welfare of the citizens of City Beautiful. It is high time that residents speak out against the same. Also, it is expected of our representatives- the MP and the elected councilors to ensure that the citizens do not face such issues that can snowball into an epidemic.

Let us hope the appropriate authorities are listening!
The Back Room Sector 34, Chandigarh- Bringing back the 80’s

First, you have a little difficult time locating The Back Room Sector 34. You are told it is behind The Toy Hotel, but you have your apprehensions. But indeed, it is there- located in a quiet little corner.

It looks like an old school house from the outside, complete with a white picketed fence. It’s 5 in the evening, an odd time to visit so the place is empty except for one table. The place looks like an English pub from the 80s. The interiors, even the music take you back to an era long gone by.

The Back Room Sector 34

The staff is courteous and attend you right away. They also don’t mind the fact that you are waiting half an hour for your companion to arrive. xD

What we ordered at The Back Room Sector 34:

Pasta Alla Vodka Brush- the vegetarian version, and of course, with white sauce and without the vodka. What I really liked about the dish that the serving was generous for two persons. However, it was a bit undercooked for my liking. But I guess it was just me as my companion thoroughly seemed to like it. Though I am sure the bread served with it was pretty average.

I also ordered a Berry Blast which was served in a mason jar. First impressions- it looked really pretty. It was quite different from the rest of the smoothies/shakes I have had. But I certainly liked it a lot. It wasn’t very sweet and the flavors burst into your mouth.

Verdict:

I have heard a lot about The Back Room so wanted to try it. I am not sure it really matched up to those standards but I would certainly want to try it again to give it another chance. Because though the pasta was just a teeny bit of a letdown, the overall experience of the place was amazing especially the staff. They have one of the most pleasant staff in the Tri-City hands down.

Price points:

A meal for two costs around Rs. 800 (excluding taxes).

Picture credits: Mrinaal Datt
#TCB: Chandigarh Police plays the good samaritan

For long, people see police as their adversaries. Even the courts say that the image of police is not very good in the eyes of the public. It is a general perception that the sight of policemen scares people instead of making them feel safe. It is because of the stray incidents people hear of corruption and bribery. However, one must remember that these are one-off incidents. There are numerous police officers out there who perform their duty with utmost sincerity. Don’t believe me? Then read these testimonials for yourself-

Encounters With Chandigarh Police:

Incident 1

Chandigarh Police

“I was recently going to the University. On the roundabout before the UIET Traffic signal, there was a massive jam because of the officer hours. Suddenly, I saw a police officer who was on a bike get off and he started managing the traffic. The chaos vanished in hardly 5 minutes. I was really impressed especially because he was a policeman but a not traffic policeman.” says Neha, a 20-year-old student at Panjab University.

Incident 2

This story is perhaps very famous. It is easily one of the most positive moments from last year. In August 2016, UT traffic head constable Harkewal Singh was on duty. He was at the busy Sectors 18-19-20-21 crossing. Suddenly it started raining as a result of which his shoes got sodden. What happened next took everyone by surprise. Singh took off his shoes, rolled up his trousers and managed the traffic in a heavy downpour for an hour. On being asked about it, he said, “A downpour is no reason for me to stop regulating traffic.” Amazing, isn’t it?

Incident 3

Rahul Gupta, a 19-year-old student in a private college recalls his own story. “So I am at the traffic park to get my permanent license and we are all getting our token numbers. Suddenly an uncle comes with his son and starts taking the name of some high ranking official. He is trying to get his son a license without having him take the test. The traffic cop sitting there just looks at him and asks him to leave. He tells him even if the Prime Minister calls him, his son will have to take the test to get his license.”

So as you can see, there is no dearth of stories of good cops. It is just that our newspapers have conditioned us to read the only negative news. What we read is what we tend to believe. But there are good policemen all around. So let’s just not be afraid of them that appreciate them for all the good work that they do all year and especially on festivities when we are enjoying with our families. But they leave theirs behind so that we celebrate in peace.
These Changes will be made under Smart City Project in Chandigarh
After the Ministry of Urban Development released its list of smart cities. Chandigarh ranked at 4^th number in the list. The city is already up with some new innovations taking few steps towards smart city project in Chandigarh. UT forms an organization “Chandigarh Smart City Project Ltd” to implement the Smart City Project. The Smart City Project Ltd has already started its work. You would have certainly experienced some changes in the city.

1. Smart Led lights

Installation of Smart Led lights on Chandigarh roads has completely changed its look from yellow lights to Smart Led white lights. Smart Led lights will be providing better visibility during the night and this especially for those who love driving at night. You must have experienced these lights are already there on the Sector 34-35 dividing road. The extending road from 35 to Madhya Marg which also be completed with these smart lights.

Features Of Smart City Project in Chandigarh:
- Distress button on each pole.
- Energy saving lights.
- Light dimming feature.
- Facility of wifi routers on each pole.
Merits:
- Reduce crime like eve-teasing, snatching, and robbery.
- Increase visibility during night
- Help save energy as well.
The distress button present on each button is meant for the person in trouble. By pressing the button the nearby lights will start to blink indicating that somebody is in trouble and it is also connected to the police control room. Immediate help will be provided by the nearby PCR.

2. Subway in Chandigarh

According to the administration officials, an initiative has already been taken to connect the Sector 17 Plaza to the famed Rose garden of Sector 16. This is also another stride for making Chandigarh a Smart City.

For more details visit: https://chandigarhbytes.com/tcbnews-subway-in-chandigarh-not-a-distant-dream/

3.Some more projects will soon be implemented in the city:
- An introduction of water ATM.
- Open air gym is on its way to make people fit.
- Cycling path in Sector 26.
- Separate dustbins for biodegradable and nonbiodegradable have already been installed in some Sectors for managing solid waste.
Upcoming Chandigarh will be a changed Chandigarh. Besides being a planned city it will soon become a smart city as well. These are few steps towards Smart city project for the betterment of the city and providing improved facilities to the residents.
T’emmele pas! French comedy play at Panjab University

T’emmêle pas, a circus show was organized by Alliance Francaise at the law auditorium, Panjab University yesterday. T’emmêle pas which is French for “Don’t tangle yourself” is a circus show where acrobatics and jugglery get involved with the dance, the theater, the mime and the music hall. The whole approach was in a farcical way. On the stage, there was a man and a woman. And the audience were left wondering if they are a couple? Friends? Brother and sister? Through the performance, the audience enjoyed the relationship progress of these comic people.

T’emmele pas at Panjab University

The show which was attended by students of various schools and students of the French language from various colleges across the Tri-City left the audience in splits. Also in attendance was Prof. Deepti Gupta, Dean, International Students, Panjab University who said she hoped to see further similar events in the University for students to enjoy.

The show was attended by students from various schools including Carmel Convent, Gurukul Global and Strawberry Fields.

MEET THE ACTORS

I also managed to catch up with the actors of the play- Hugo Varett and Anouck Wroblewski. Here are the excerpts from the interview-

Great show, guys! So where will you be performing next?

Amritsar. We have already performed at Kathmandu and Chennai. We will also be performing at Delhi and Pune soon.

How do you guys balance yourselves so well? With all the acrobatics and the stunts?

Practice (laughs). Lots of practice. We began when we were young.

At what age did you start?

She started when she was 8 years old. I was nine. So that is almost twenty years ago.

Since when have you two been working together?

Almost 7 years now. We write our own plays.

What inspired you to take up this art form? The choreography and the acrobatics?

So many things. (Sighs) So many things. We can find inspiration everywhere. At a moment, we write something, or like see something we like. When you begin as an artist, you have to see, analyze and understand everything. What another artist is talking about. How they do something. All of that can be inspiring. Personally, I like English humor and Italian theater. Each act of the play was inspired. In the last act, we tried to do musical comedy.

How difficult is it to capture the attention of children? With the advent of technology, has it become more difficult?

The difference between technology and this show is…when we are in reality the communication becomes easier. Children are always looking forward to new things. Whenever we are performing for children, we change some jokes that we feel are not appropriate for them.

What do children ask for the most after the show?

Well, they generally say thank you and tell us how cool the show was. But almost always they ask for a lot of selfies! (laughs)
#Foodie: Avid Tea Drinkers Chaibubble is a place for you

Winter thirst for Tea? Chaibubble is an ideal place for a cup of Tea. It is a small cute place with amicable interiors located at the backside of Sector 10 inner market. The owner has put in his endeavor to execute such a unique venture. He has brought different types of tea from different parts of the world and packaged them. This place gives an immaculate and peaceful environment to relax with a cup of tea.

Their menu offers perfect combo of food complimenting your chai. They serve White tea, Nirvana tea as their specialty. You can take refills of tea at your own will as many times you want. The owner is a welcoming gentleman with great knowledge of tea. When you see your tea for the first time you are jaw struck with the crockery used for serving tea. The quality of the food served is appreciable especially Vanilla cake slice is a must have!! Food plated up with reasonable prices giving it an edge over the others.

A lot of cafes are here in Chandigarh but this one is true with a different concept charming people with its interiors. The aroma of the tea takes you to another world of tea. Chai served will surely live up to your expectations. This place is quite similar to the “Chai point” in Gurgaon with courteous staff and helping people to choose the perfect chai for them. A lot of planning has surely been done to put up a great café. Chaibubble has surely won many people’s heart and will continue to do so. Hope this cafe works and stays in Chandigarh for a long span. Definitely worth visiting…….

Other information: Chaibubble

Phone number

+91 9888788080

Cuisines

Beverages, Street Food, Fast Food

Cost

AVERAGE

350 for two people (approx.)

Cash and Cards accepted

Opening hours

Open now

Today 11 AM to 11 PM

Address

Coal Depot Complex, Sector 10 D, Chandigarh

A cup of Chai makes everything better.
#News: Vodafone SuperNet 4G services Now in Chandigarh
Vodafone a major telecom industry launches it’s Vodafone SuperNet 4G in Chandigarh. The SuperNet 4G was launched by a famous personality, Milkha Singh. Gradually the SuperNet 4G will be taken to other parts of Punjab to rural and urban areas of the state by March 2017.

Vodafone SuperNet 4G

This SuperNet 4G will provide the facility of connecting to the web through different sources or gadgets including dongles. The Vodafone SuperNet 4g has been dispatched in Punjab after successful services in Kerala, Karnataka, Kolkata, Delhi and NCR, Mumbai, Haryana, UP (east), Gujarat, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Assam and North East, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and UP (west) circles.

Vodafone India Operations Director Arvind Vohra told the reporters, “We believe tariff will never be a long-term differentiator. Long term differentiator will be really superior customer experience, consistently superior customer relevant propositions, which is where Vodafone SuperNet 4G comes. Having said that, the company has also come out with a lot of exciting offers on the 4G launch”.

Vohra said that they have been investing in the company to provide superior customer experience. The company invested Rs 2250 crore in dealing with the growing volumes of customers using internet.

Vodafone has targeted the capital of Chandigarh and Haryana first and later the services will be expanded to other parts of the states as well. With this SuperNet, 4G people will experience faster download, upload of videos, music, chats or any other matter.

Vodafone has come up with Bonanza offers for the customers Punjab to enjoy the fastest internet speed.

Free upgrade to 4G for customers along with high-speed 4G SIM, 2GB data free with every 4G SIM upgrade.

Two hour free 4G services daily for 30 days to all prepaid customers with 4G handset and 4G Sim

An array of data packs and 4G international roaming in 35 plus countries with many more countries to be launched in the near future.
- Vodafone users upgrade your sim to 4G sim and enjoy the fastest internet speed ever.
Craving for milkshakes: Here you go Milkshake Lovers

Cravings for shakes in Chandigarh!! Chandigarh is a place where you have number of options for relishing food stuff but there are plethora of places where you can have shakes. Shakes are an all time favourite for almost everyone. Know these places better and enjoy your milkshakes.

Here is list of outlets serving amazing milkshakes:

Keventers, Elante mall

Keventers is a milkshake franchise which provides milkshake packaged in glass bottles that are too adorable to leave behind. There milkshakes leave a lingering smile and drive you to visit again. Recently they have opened their other outlet in sector 8 inner market which is also a very famed market among youngsters.

Nik bakers

Nik Bakers has many outlets in Chandigarh. It serves the most delicious shakes in the city. This could be a perfect place for meeting your friend over a short meal, you could order certain snacks with shakes tastes the best.

Mocha, Elante mall

Mocha is the best place to hangout in Chandigarh. Here you get great food with premium milkshakes and Live music is an add on to it. A must visit place for Quality time with your loved ones.

Super Donuts

Super Donuts are quick takeaway booths to get mouth-watering milkshakes and Donuts. There are several outlets of super donuts in Chandigarh. They have interesting names for their milkshakes which gives them another different twist. Birthday bash milkshake is a must try one!!

Uncle Jack’s

Uncle Jack’s is a small booth in Sector 8 serving shakes and other food stuff. They were the first eatery serving everything in glass jars. Uncle jack’s took everything to another level serving all-American style food and shakes. This is the most wanted eatery place among youngsters. If you visit it once you’ll surely want to visit it everyday.

Milkshake and Co

This is another outlet in Sector 8 with Original milkshakes. The milkshakes are served in glass jars specially decorated for that particular flavour. Milkshakes are not the only thing you should drive to this place they serve bagels as well. They specially have hot shakes as well, must try ones are Hillman with a tinge of caramel and rock salt.

Gupta juice corner

Gupta corner is a shop in Sector 8 Madhya Marg market. It gets most of its crowd from the nearby offices and gyms situated there in that market. Gupta also serves protein shakes for those who are diet conscious. The shakes of this place are prepared with fresh fruit topping.

Tossin Pizza

Tossin Pizza is located in Sector 35 the major food court lane. This place is known for its pizza’s but it also serves appetizing shakes. Red velvet shake is totally new flavour in a shake which is seriously amazing. Do try there shakes when you visit.

They are many more places for shakes but these are best ones. No more craving for shakes, visit these places assured satisfaction achieved.

# MILKSHAKES#Chocolate#Strawberry#Caramel# Love them

Enjoy your milkshake with smile
Event Alert! Club Haze in Chandigarh will host it’s first LIVE band Mridang

Haze is an offshoot of Hotel City Heart in Sector-17. Club Haze in Chandigarh recently began its operations in the basement adjoining to the Hotel. What makes the place really special is its old school vibe.

About Club Haze in Chandigarh:

I recently had the opportunity to visit the place and it reminds you of your school days. Remember when there used to be a culture of club parties? The entry restricted. Stag entry, couple entry and entry free till some time? The place reminds you of all that and more. Further, it is perhaps the only place in the City right now which is hosting day parties (!!!).

Enough about the place.

Band- Mridang

Now about the band- Mridang. Mridang is hardly a year old band from Chandigarh. However, it has garnered quite a name for itself in this short span of time. The band is currently playing at plethora of places like Peddlers, Hangout, Shosha, Ministry of Bar Exchange, Maverick etc. But perhaps the most important feat of this band is reaching IIT, Delhi. The annual fest of IIT-D, Rendezvous has a Hindi Rock band competition. The entries are selected on the basis of original compositions and Mridang was amongst the 12 bands selected from all over India. There were more than 300 bands in the contest. Mridang made it to the Top 4.

With such an amazing track record, Haze and Mridang have joined hands to hold a ‘Soulful Saturday’ event at the former on 21st January.

A further incentive for you to go is the Club’s exclusive 1+1 offer on IMFL drinks exclusively for the event.

So what are you waiting for? Join the event here- https://www.facebook.com/events/1287734211285170/

You can also read more about the band here- fb.com/mridangband

Happy clubbing!