Roads, lights, water fail Rohtak industrial area

While the BJP government has announced plans to establish 10 new industrial model townships (IMTs) across the state, the existing industrial area Industrial Development Colony (IDC) on Hisar Road in Rohtak city is bearing the brunt of neglect.

Unit owners in the IDC have raised persistent concerns over poor civic amenities but to no avail. Pothole-ridden roads, overflowing sewer lines, contaminated water supply, non-functional streetlights, and frequent power outages have become challenges for those operating in the area.

Industrialists allege despite repeated complaints to the local authorities, the issue remains unresolved. Many believe that while the government focuses on creating new industrial hubs, existing IDC here are being overlooked.

SK Khator, Chairman of the Rohtak IDC Industries Association, stated that over 200 industrial units are located across IDC along the Hisar road.

“These industries are paying all applicable municipal and government taxes, yet the basic infrastructure, especially roads, remains in a shambles. Deep potholes have developed on many roads in the industrial area, creating inconvenience for factory owners, employees, and visitors alike. There have even been incidents of vehicle damage due to these potholes. The situation worsens at night when the drivers cannot see the damaged roads due to non-functional streetlights,” Khator added.

He noted that most roads were constructed a long time ago and have seen no major maintenance since. “Despite the authorities being aware, no concrete steps have been taken. Many industrialists have now lost hope of any improvement,” he added.

Sunil Kumar, another factory owner, highlighted the problem of poor lighting. “The entire industrial area plunges into darkness after sunset due to defunct streetlights. There have been incidents of money snatching from workers in the past. The fear of criminal activities looms large, and the absence of lighting only worsens the situation. The authorities must act immediately to restore lighting and ensure safety.” He also pointed to another growing issue of sewage overflow. “Due to irregular cleaning, sewer water often accumulates on the roads, causing a foul smell and creating a breeding ground for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of disease. The situation gets worse in monsoon season leading to waterlogging on the roads,” he added.

Parvinder Rathi, a fellow factory owner, flagged the issue of contaminated water supply. “For a long time now, we have been receiving foul-smelling blackish water. It is completely unusable. We have been forced to purchase water through private tankers to meet daily needs. What’s the point of the government supply if it is unfit for use?” he questioned.

Ashok Yadav, Assistant General Manager of HSIIDC, said a tender worth Rs 10 crore had been allotted to a private firm for laying new sewer, stormwater and potable water lines in the IDC. The work is expected to begin within the next one or two days.“Although the tender was issued two months ago, the work could not start earlier due to the rainy season. All necessary formalities have already been completed in this regard,” he added. Yadav further said the process for road repair within the IDC is also at present underway.

Anshul Kumar, one of the industrialists, expressed concern over frequent and unscheduled power cuts.

“Power outages occur without prior notice, bringing production to a halt. Due to environmental regulations, old generator sets cannot be used and many units do not have approved alternatives. The cost of new generators is high, yet some industrialists have had no choice but to invest in these,” said he, adding that upgrading the local power substation could significantly improve the situation.

Summing up the condition of the IDC, Anshul remarked, “These problems have now become a part of our daily routine.”