Bhikhiwind battles civic neglect

Bhikhiwind, a border-area town with a population of approximately 26,000, holds the status of a Nagar Panchayat. Despite its strategic and political significance, the town continues to suffer from a severe lack of basic civic amenities. Located on National Highway 354, Bhikhiwind is also the headquarters of a BSF battalion, adding to its importance. Given its growing population and political relevance, every major political party aims to establish a stronghold in the town.

However, residents have long been grappling with numerous issues such as poor road conditions, lack of drinking water, a faulty sewerage system and worsening traffic problems. One of the most persistent issues is daily traffic congestion, which has become a major nuisance for commuters and traders alike.

The local bus stand, built to ease traffic flow, remains largely unused since its inauguration in 2019. Instead, buses are parked on the roads in all four directions of the town, further encouraging private vehicles to park along the same routes. Harjinder Singh, a trade unionist, criticised the traffic police for their lax attitude and failure to enforce road safety and anti-encroachment rules.

Private vehicles, including cars and bikes, are often found parked right in the middle of the main roads, further obstructing traffic flow. Daljit Singh, a mini-bus operator, said that the bus stand has remained deserted for years and is contributing significantly to the traffic chaos.

Twelve years ago, the state government initiated a project to provide safe drinking water to the town. A water tank was constructed for this purpose, but the project was abandoned midway. The underground pipes intended for water distribution still lie unused beside the now-defunct tank.

Officials from the Nagar Panchayat said water samples from the town had failed quality tests, leaving residents with no choice but to consume unhygienic water. The absence of a proper sewage treatment system has further worsened the situation. Wastewater is discharged directly into the Kasur Drain without treatment, resulting in foul odour and unsanitary conditions.

The Executive Officer (EO) of the Nagar Panchayat said a proposal for constructing a Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP) has been submitted to the state government for approval. In the meantime, sewage remains stagnant in many parts of the town, affecting the daily lives of residents.

Adding to the civic woes is non-availability of public toilets. Residents, especially women, face immense difficulties due to the absence of these basic facilities in the town’s market area.

The uncovered Kasur Drain further adds to the problems by emanating a strong stench and creating health hazards. Meanwhile, the roads are in a dilapidated state, filled with deep potholes and cracks. Dust clouds caused by passing vehicles only add to the discomfort of the residents.

Another grave concern among locals is the rising drug menace. Residents allege that drugs are easily available throughout the town and that the situation has spiralled out of the administration's control.