Villagers take charge: Community effort bridges gap in Thana village
Residents and elected representatives of Pandrer gram panchayat in Nurpur have set an inspiring example of community participation by completing the construction of a much-needed culvert in Thana village. The village, often cut off during torrential monsoon rains due to flash floods in a seasonal nullah, had long struggled with disrupted road connectivity. A tragic incident a few years ago, in which a 10-year-old boy was washed away in the nullah, underscored the urgency of the project.
Although the Panchayati Raj and Rural Development Department sanctioned Rs 1.90 lakh under the MGNREGA scheme for the culvert — covering 60 per cent labour and 40 per cent material costs — the total estimated cost exceeded Rs 4 lakh. With government funds falling short, the panchayat, led by up-pradhan Sikander Rana, mobilised a community effort to bridge the gap.
Residents of Thana village (Ward No. 2) and panchayat members launched a campaign to collect construction materials and contribute labour. With active supervision from the panchayat, the culvert was completed in about 18 months.
In a show of respect for community values, the villagers chose Sansar Singh, an octogenarian resident of Thana village, to inaugurate the new culvert instead of panchayat officials. The project stands as a testament to collective effort, proving that community-driven initiatives can overcome financial constraints and bring meaningful change.
