Sewer water overflows in Katra Ahluwalia’s main bazar, irks devotees, tourists, residents

The main bazar of Katra Ahluwalia, a historic area developed to attract tourists, has been grappling with severe waterlogging due to a blocked sewer line for the last several days. Overflowing sewer is causing significant inconvenience to devotees heading to Darbar Sahib, besides tourists, local residents and traders.

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Foul smell emanates from water overflowing from manholes and accumulated on streets. A tea seller in the area said, “The stinky sewer water overflows from manholes and accumulates on street every day. None of us and visitors can bear foul smell.”

Katra Ahluwalia, known for its centuries-old architecture, is a popular route for devotees visiting Darbar Sahib. A large number of pilgrims use this path daily. Waterlogging in streets has made their journey difficult. “The area is always bustling with devotees, but the present situation is making it hard for them to walk through waterlogged streets,” said a local resident.

The issue has also impacted tourism in the area. A tourist guide, who frequently brings foreign tourists to explore the historic architecture of Katra Ahluwalia, shared his concerns. He said, “We come along tourists to show them rich heritage, but waterlogging and unhygienic conditions in the area are ruining experience of tourists. It’s embarrassing to explain the situation to visitors, who come here to have a glimpse of the beauty of this historic place.”

Residents blamed illegal hotels operating in narrow streets of Katra Ahluwalia for waterlogging on streets. A local resident Ravi alleged, “Illegal hotels in these narrow lanes have put excessive pressure on sewer lines. These inns are the main reason behind blockage of sewer lines and waterlogging on streets. The authorities concerned have to take strict action against such establishments.”

Persistent waterlogging has not only disrupted daily life, but also raised concerns about public health and hygiene. Residents and traders are regularly urging the Municipal Corporation authorities to immediately clear blocked sewer line and prevent waterlogging and unhygienic conditions in the area.