Rain, neglect and reckless digging leave Dharamsala roads in ruins

The condition of roads in Dharamsala Smart City has deteriorated alarmingly over the past two months, putting commuters and residents at serious risk. Deep potholes, damaged surfaces and clogged drains have turned major stretches into accident-prone zones, with two-wheeler riders being the worst affected.

From Charaan Bridge to Barol and Darhi Bazaar, roads resemble craters rather than thoroughfares. Heavy rain has further eroded blacktop layers, as stormwater gushes onto roads due to blocked drainage channels. Locals blame repeated digging for pipeline works, poor drain maintenance and unchecked vegetation growth for worsening conditions.

“Every time it rains, the Barol road gets submerged. Despite repeated complaints to the administration and PWD, no action has been taken,” said Vipan Kumar, a Barol resident.

Civic activists also flagged hazardous stretches near Ramnagar, Shamnagar, the bus stand and Charaan to Sheela, where neither the PWD nor the municipal corporation has placed warning signs. “The absence of even basic safety measures has left commuters vulnerable to accidents,” said Atul Bhardwaj, a social worker.

Residents allege that roads have been dug up multiple times for various projects, but contractors and government agencies have failed to restore them properly. In some cases, old drains were sealed without alternatives, worsening waterlogging.

Daily travel has now become perilous. Locals are demanding immediate road repairs, systematic drain cleaning, and accountability from officials. They also highlight the absence of on-ground inspections by senior officers, calling it a reflection of the district administration’s indifference to an escalating civic crisis.