Road repair: Execution appeal filed against MC

Frustrated by the Municipal Corporation’s (MC) failure to comply with a Permanent Lok Adalat order, which had directed it to repair the Defence Colony road by November 30 last year, residents have now filed an execution petition against the civic body.

The petition has been filed by residents, led by their society’s general secretary Harbinder Singh, through their counsel advocate Vikram Dutta, urging the Lok Adalat to enforce its judgment. The order, issued in October 2024, mandated the MC to carry out repairs on the road, which connects Defence Colony to PAP Chowk and had been in a deteriorated condition for over two years.

Residents say that despite the Lok Adalat’s directive, the MC did not comply with the orders. They said while officials did turn up, they merely recarpeted one side of the road and left the other side covered with gravel, making the situation even worse.

“The gravel have become a hazard, especially for two-wheeler riders who often skid while commuting,” said a resident.

They added that the road has long been a source of frustration for commuters and locals, with numerous potholes making travel difficult. "The poor condition of the stretch has also led to frequent accidents, particularly at night when visibility is low", they lamented.

Residents said local leaders and business associations had urged the MC to act swiftly, highlighting the need for road repairs ahead of major events like Diwali. However, despite repeated complaints and even a legal directive, the authorities failed to take proper action.

Advocate Vikram Dutta said April 7 has been fixed for the hearing of the execution petition and they hope the Lok Adalat will intervene to ensure the MC follows through on its commitment. “We have awaited long enough. If the authorities continue to ignore court orders, legal action is the only option left,” he added.