Jalandhar: Underpass near JCT Mill turns virtual drain amid rains

The underpass beneath the national highway in front of JCT Mill on the GT Road continues to pose a serious challenge to commuters during the rains as waterlogging renders it impassable. The issue, persisting for over two years, has again come to the fore following recent rainfall.

Speaking on the matter, Taranjit Singh Bunti Walia, Municipal Councillor and president of Block Congress (Urban), Phagwara, highlighted the longstanding nature of the problem. “Every time it rains, the underpass turns into a virtual drain. Deep potholes on the road filled with rainwater, making it extremely hazardous for pedestrians and two-wheeler riders,” he said.

The area surrounding the underpass is a busy marketplace, with numerous fruit and vegetable vendors operating from roadside stalls and carts. Shoppers frequent the area in large numbers, but the persistent waterlogging severely disrupts pedestrian and vehicular movement.

Councillor Walia expressed concern that even brief showers leave the road submerged for days. He also warned of a looming public health threat, as stagnant water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes, potentially leading to outbreaks of vector-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria.

Walia urged the Municipal Commissioner to take immediate steps to address the issue. “Just like the underpass near the sugar mill was reconstructed and provided with proper drainage, the JCT Mill underpass must also be rebuilt with an effective water drainage system,” he said.

He emphasised the need for swift and permanent resolution, stating that the current condition of the road not only hampers daily life, but also poses a risk to public safety and health.

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Photo caption: A stark image of rainwater accumulation on the underpass road near JCT Mill, reflecting administrative inaction.