Nakodar grapples with poor roads, traffic woes: Residents demand action

The town of Nakodar is facing multiple civic challenges that are severely affecting daily life for residents and commuters. Chief among these is the deteriorating road infrastructure. The main road connecting Nakodar to Jalandhar, particularly the stretch up to Convent School, has been badly damaged, making travel perilous. Students and daily commuters have reported frequent near-accidents, with the situation worsening during rainy conditions.

Illegal encroachments have further compounded the problem. Shops and temporary structures on major thoroughfares have narrowed lanes, forcing vehicles to squeeze through congested spaces. The town’s key commercial hubs, including Hospital Road and Vishwakarma Chowk, are particularly affected, turning routine commutes into cumbersome and often dangerous journeys.

Traffic management in Nakodar is another glaring concern. With no proper arrangements or signage, vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists often jostle for space, increasing the risk of collisions. During peak hours, congestion becomes unbearable, causing delays that affect both residents and businesses.

Residents also point to inadequate municipal oversight as a major factor behind these problems. Potholes, unplanned construction, and the lack of systematic maintenance have been recurring issues for years, yet little seems to have been done to address them. Public Works Department (PWD) interventions, when carried out, are often limited and fail to provide long-term solutions.

Political leaders have raised concerns over the administration’s inaction. District BJP (Rural) President Munish Dheer criticised the municipal committee, PWD, and civil administration for failing to implement effective solutions, stating that the town’s growing problems are putting lives at risk. Meanwhile, SDM Nakodar Lal Vishwas has assured residents that steps will be initiated to address the issues, though specific timelines remain unclear.

The situation in Nakodar reflects a broader need for comprehensive civic planning and enforcement. From road repair and traffic management to regulation of encroachments, residents are demanding urgent action to ensure safety, improve mobility and restore the town’s liveability.