Chandigarh, Feb. 12 -- Holding his first house meeting after assuming charge, mayor Saurabh Joshi on Wednesday ensured that councillors from all parties were given a patient hearing, even if it meant extending the zero hour to nearly three hours.

From contaminated water supply in Mauli Jagran and the condition of the gaushala in Raipur Kalan, where over 60 cows were recently found dead, to dilapidated roads, faulty tubewells and improper garbage disposal, councillors across party lines flagged a range of civic issues. The mayor assured them that their concerns would be addressed.

Responding to agitated councillors highlighting problems in their respective wards, Joshi repeatedly used phrases such as, "I second you," "Very good idea," "P...