Potholed roads, sewage stench plague Focal Point
Focal Point and Focal Point Extension, key industrial hubs, are reeling under severe civic neglect, with overflowing sewage, non-functional streetlights and mounting garbage turning the area into a nightmare for industrialists.
Despite being home to over 300 major industrial units and hosting clients from across the country and abroad, the area’s infrastructure has seen little attention from the authorities concerned.
Business owners, who contribute significant revenue through water and sewage levies and property taxes, are increasingly frustrated. They claim the deteriorating infrastructure is not only affecting operations, but also tarnishing the area's reputation. The situation worsens during rain, with overflowing sewers damaging already crumbling roads and creating hazardous conditions.
Rajan Sharda, an industrialist actively voicing these issues, lamented the embarrassment of welcoming clients through such dismal surroundings. “It’s humiliating to escort visitors through potholed roads filled with garbage with stray animals roaming around. We’ve invested crores in our units and yet the government expects us to fix basic infrastructure,” Sharda said.
Industrialists have pointed out that daily hundreds of vehicles traverse the area, making its poor state even more concerning. They accused the authorities of ignoring their plight, with promises made during the elections remaining unfulfilled. “Not a single official has visited to address our grievances,” they added.
The lack of functional streetlights has further exacerbated the safety concerns. With half the lights non-operational, factory workers leaving late at night have become frequent targets for snatchers, taking advantage of darkness. Additionally, small vehicles used for loading goods often stuck into sewage-filled potholes, leading to delays.
The stench from stagnant sewage near factories is another major complaint, with industrialists citing severe health hazards for workers. “It’s impossible to work in such unbearable conditions. The government has a responsibility to provide basic infrastructure, but the indifference is appalling,” said one business owner.
They said the area, the cornerstone of the local economy, continues to bear the brunt of civic apathy, with industrialists urging immediate action from the Municipal Corporation and district administration to restore the infrastructure and ensure a dignified working environment.
