Dilapidated roads, defunct streetlights Trader flags crippling infrastructure in Phagwara industrial area

Philanthropist and industrialist Sat Pal Sethi has urged the Phagwara Municipal Corporation and the government to take immediate steps to address deteriorating civic infrastructure in industrial area and Model Town, citing serious concerns over roads, streetlighting and sewerage systems.

In a representation to Phagwara Mayor Ram Pal Uppal, he highlighted that roads in the industrial area were laid nearly 15 years ago and had not been repaired or re-carpeted since. As a result, the roads are now in a severely dilapidated condition, causing inconvenience to industrial units, workers and transport vehicles. Similar conditions prevail in Model Town, where a majority of the industrialists reside.

The letter further pointed out that a large number of streetlights in the industrial area were non-functional. The company requested urgent repair and replacement of fused LED lights to ensure safety and smooth movement during night hours.

Another major issue raised was the frequent blockage of sewer lines, particularly during the rainy season. According to the representation, the sewerage in the industrial area was laid in 1950 and has not been upgraded despite significant industrial growth over the decades. The existing drainage infrastructure is inadequate to handle the current load, leading to repeated overflows and unsanitary conditions.

The industrial unit stressed that manufacturers operating in the area contributed taxes worth crores of rupees annually to both the state and Central government and, therefore, expected basic civic amenities to be maintained efficiently.

The management also drew attention to the impact of poor infrastructure on industrial productivity as well as on residents living in adjoining localities such as Model Town.

The copies of the request were also forwarded to Minister for Local Government and Parliamentary Affairs Dr Ravjot Singh and the Commissioner of the Phagwara Municipal Corporation, urging coordinated action at the earliest.

Industrial circles in Phagwara have echoed similar concerns and expressed hope that the authorities will take prompt remedial measures to upgrade essential infrastructure and ensure a safer, cleaner, and more industry-friendly environment in the city.