HC questions govt over delayed water treatment plant at Sahungra

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued a notice to the Punjab Government, demanding an explanation for the delay in the construction of a water treatment plant at Sahungra village in Nawanshahr.

Despite the approval of the Thapar model treatment plant nearly two years ago, work has yet to begin, leaving villagers to endure the dire living conditions due to improper waste water disposal.

The case was brought before the court by a complainant, represented by lawyer Harinder Pal Singh Ishar, who alleged that political interference has halted the project. He argued that certain individuals in the village have obstructed the work, leading to the persistent waste water overflow from the village pond, which affects residents.

To address the crisis, the previous village panchayat had passed a resolution to redirect the excess water through an underground pipeline. With government support, four kanals were purchased and excavation of the pond was completed. Additionally, a grant of Rs 45 lakh was sanctioned for the project. However, despite these measures, the project remains stalled.

During the hearing, the government’s legal representative requested additional time to seek instructions from the Deputy Commissioner regarding the project's commencement. The court has scheduled the next hearing for March 6, warning that if progress is not made, the Deputy Commissioner may be required to appear in person.

Former sarpanch Rajbalwinder Sahungra expressed frustration over the prolonged delay, stating that repeated attempts to resolve the issue had failed due to political roadblocks. He said their last resort was court's intervention, and they hope for a resolution to the long-standing crisis by next hearing.