Chandigarh struggles: Sector 17 market in shambles; roads covered in potholes

The City Beautiful has been left reeling after heavy rainfall over the past two days, exposing the city's infrastructure and preparedness. Many sectors have been affected, with roads damaged further, and markets struggling with waterlogging and structural issues.

The Sector 17 market, a popular shopping destination, has borne the brunt of the heavy rain. Tiles were damaged at many places, giving the sector an ugly look. Sanjeev Chaddha, president of Chandigarh Beopar Mandal and a trader in Sector 17, said that hundreds of people visit the market every day, but the broken tiles are a major concern. He attributed the problem to the employees of the Electricity Department and other internet companies, who damage the tiles while repairing underground cables and fail to replace them.

Meanwhile, the multi-level parking in Sector 17, constructed at a cost of over Rs 48 crores, also leaked at many places, with water entering the basement parking.

Sikandar Singh, an employee of the Punjab government, said that the condition of Sector 17 is not satisfactory and that proper cleaning of the market is required to drain water immediately after rain.

The condition of roads in many sectors has also deteriorated further, with large potholes posing a risk to residents. The heavy flow of water damaged roads around all the roundabouts of the city.

Waterlogging has also been reported in other markets, including Sector 34 and 35. The city's infrastructure has been exposed, raising questions about the preparedness of the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation for such situations.

A wall behind the government houses in Sector 22 A has also collapsed due to the heavy rain, highlighting the need for urgent repairs and maintenance.