Flower show cancellation casts gloom over Ludhiana residence

Ludhiana: City residents have turned upset due to the cancellation of the Annual Flower and Baby Show this year. The event was held in 2024 after a gap of nine years. However, officials from the Municipal Corporation (MC) are unable to organize the event amid the extra burden of civic body work and upcoming mayoral polls. Last year, over 100 park management committees took part.

A horticulture branch official, speaking anonymously, said, “We need permission from the local bodies department, but we couldn’t get it this year, so the event is not planned yet.”

Locals are disappointed with this decision. Arshpreet Kaur, a resident of Model Town, said, “I have participated in the flower show many times. It was a great way to see different flowers. Such events should happen every year.”

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Similarly, Sarabjot Singh from Maharaj Nagar shared, “I took my son to the baby show last year. Even though he didn’t win, our family enjoyed it. The city lacks spaces for public gatherings, so the MC should continue organizing such events.”

Senior Deputy Mayor Rakesh Prashar cited financial problems as the reason for cancelling the event. “The civic body is facing a financial crisis. Right now, we are focusing on development work, so it is better to avoid extra expenses. We will organize such events once our finances improve,” he said.

Several residents turned red-faced because no permission was given for hosting the vibrant flower show. Local people will have to wait for a long period to enjoy the flower festival with families and friends.