1.5 years on, 32 approved colonies in Jhajjar sans basic amenities

Even after one-and-a-half years since their official approval by the state government, as many as 32 colonies falling under Jhajjar Municipal Council (MC) area continue to struggle without access to basic civic amenities such as sewer lines, potable water supply, proper drainage systems and concrete streets.

Frustration is growing not only among the residents but also among elected representatives, who have urged the state government to ensure timely provision of these essential services.

Joginder of Shiv Colony expressed disappointment over the lack of progress. “We were hopeful about getting basic facilities like sewer lines and potable water, but nothing has been done so far. We still have to fetch drinking water from far-off places to meet our daily needs,” he lamented.

Manish of Dev Colony echoed similar concerns. “We are fed up waiting for sewer and water pipelines. Despite our colony being approved by the state government, we have not seen any benefit,” he added.

Surender of Kaccha Babra Colony highlighted the lack of infrastructure. “Many streets remain ‘kutcha’. Every household relies on septic tanks, which have to be cleaned at regular intervals. The biggest issue is the absence of potable water. Some residents purchase water, while others must travel long distances to fetch it,” he pointed out.

Other residents, including Ram Niwas and Khem Chand, shared similar sentiments and urged the state government to act swiftly to ensure the provision of basic civic services in their localities.

Naresh Dedwal, Municipal Councillor from Ward 15, confirmed that residents of Kaccha Babra Colony are still facing difficulties due to the lack of sewer lines and other essential services. “I had raised the issue before PHED Minister Ranbir Gangwa during his recent visit to Jhajjar. He assured us that sewer and water lines will be laid soon in all approved colonies,” Dedwal stated.

Surender Singh, Executive Engineer of the Jhajjar MC, explained that the council's responsibility in the newly approved colonies is limited to constructing concrete streets and establishing storm water drainage systems. “Streets have already been constructed in some colonies, while proposals for the remaining are awaiting state approval,” he said.

Zile Singh Saini, Chairperson of the Jhajjar MC, assured that steps were being taken to resolve the issues. He revealed that a Rs 100 crore project proposal had been submitted to the state government for approval.

Meanwhile, Ashwani Sangwan, Executive Engineer at the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED), stated that detailed project reports for laying sewer lines and providing potable water in all 32 newly approved colonies had been sent to the state authorities. “The work will begin as soon as approval is received,” he added.