Closed service lane of national highway turns into a parking lot

A service lane of the Amritsar-Jalandhar National Highway, a vital artery connecting two major cities, near Golden Gate is plagued with waterlogging for over a year. The stretch near Golden Gate, a key entrance to the holy city, has been particularly affected, with the service lane remaining closed due to persistent waterlogging.

To prevent vehicles from hitting potholes beneath the submerged stretch, big concrete boulders have been placed on the road. However, this makeshift arrangement seems to have become a permanent feature, with no permanent solution in sight.

Boulders have turned the stretch into a parking lot for nearby car dealers, while commuters are forced to take the main road, leading to increased traffic congestion. Residents are questioning the lethargy of the authorities concerned as the stretch has turned into an eyesore near the entrance to the holy city.

“It is disheartening to see such condition of the highway, especially when it is a key entrance to our city,” said a resident, urging the authorities to take immediate action to address the issue.

Waterlogging has also given rise to health concerns, as the submerged road has become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and diseases. “Stagnant water is a health hazard. We need to take immediate action to prevent the spread of diseases,” said Dr Neeru Sharma, a local resident.

The service lane is meant to provide easy access to vehicles coming from the bypass road to connect with the main highway. However, with the lane now remaining closed, its very purpose has been defeated. “Presently, the situation can be attributed to rain. However, we have seen waterlogging even when there is no rain. The issue seems to be connected with drainage and sewer lines,” said another resident,” Harpreet Singh.

“We need a permanent solution to this problem. The authorities have to take responsibility for maintaining the highway, while ensuring the safety of commuters,” said a local shopkeeper.