Heavy rains take their toll on city roads

Avneet Kaur

Jalandhar, August 21

The recent heavy rains in Jalandhar and surrounding areas have increased the problems of commuters as huge potholes, along with piles of garbage, have appeared on various roads of the city. These potholes and damaged roads have been posing a big threat of accidents to people.

The road from Namdev Chowk to BMC Chowk in the city, which witnesses heavy traffic everyday, lies in a dilapidated condition. Roads have been damaged at various places like the bus-stand road, Police Lines Road, Pathankot Bypass Road and Railway Station road which need to be repaired urgently.

The sludge on roads is also resulting in the skidding of two-wheelers in various areas, including the Maqsudan flyover.

Praveen Kumar, a commuter, said, “Tall claims of the development by the Congress government have fallen flat with just three rains in the season, as roads have been damaged and potholes appearing at various places. Officials of the MC have become a mute spectator in the matter.”

Residents said the potholes should have been filled by officials concerned immediately after the rain. But as usual, this time also we find ourselves at the receiving end despite paying taxes to the government.”

Another commuter Vishesh Gupta said, “I was travelling through the BMC Chowk with my friend and passing near MBD Mall when our motorcycle lost its balance due to a pothole. We fell on the road and sustained injuries on a hand and knee. The MC officials should take strict action in this regard and fill these potholes immediately as thousands of commuters daily use the road.”

Rajnish Dogra, Municipal Corporation Engineer (B&R), said, “The cost to improve such roads which are in a dilapidated state has been estimated. As the estimated budget has not been passed, the work cannot be done. We will make sure the condition of the roads get improved soon.”

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