Trenches dug up along NH pose threat to commuters

Deep trenches dug up for drain reconstruction along the national highway near Pathankot Chowk pose danger to commuters, especially during night. With the city experiencing rainfall yesterday and today, these water-filled trenches pose a grave threat to motorists, highlighting inadequate safety measures.

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Despite severe fog in winter, which significantly reduces visibility, the authorities concerned, the municipal corporation and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), have left these trenches open for over one and a half months. Shopkeepers near the stretch noted that it connects Transport Nagar and Focal Point, where hundreds of vehicles ply on the service lanes daily.

Residents and shopkeepers shared harrowing accounts of the risks these trenches create. “On foggy mornings when visibility is near zero, a driver can easily misjudge the trench’s location and end up in falling into it. It’s like navigating a death trap,” said Kamaljeet Singh, a local resident. He added, “Unfortunately, lessons are often learnt after fatalities, and it feels like the authorities concerned are waiting for a disaster before taking action.”

Preeti, another resident, highlighted that this stretch had witnessed multiple fatal accidents earlier as well. “One is caught completely off-guard by these open trenches, especially during fog. There should be proper signboards, barricades and electronic reflectors to alert drivers in advance. Reflectors should be visible from a distance to caution commuters,” she said.

Shopkeepers in the area voiced frustration over the negligence. “The rainy weather has only worsened conditions. Filled with water, the trenches become almost invisible in poor light or heavy fog, leaving unsuspecting drivers vulnerable to accidents. With so many vehicles using this stretch, the trenches are nothing short of a ticking time-bomb,” Vikas, a shopkeeper said.

Meanwhile, acknowledging the concern, Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Aggarwal assured action. “I will direct the NHAI officials concerned to address this issue immediately and ensure these trenches are covered at the earliest,” he said.