Clogged storm water drains irk commuters

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, August 4
Storm water drains in different parts of the city are lying blocked, leading to stagnation of water along drains. Since blockage has led to water stagnation, it has become breeding ground for mosquitoes.
As the rainy season is going on, these blocked drains have been causing trouble for commuters. It has become difficult to pass through the stretch due to water stagnation and foul smell.
Ajit Singh, a shopkeeper from Bhadaur House, said it had become difficult to pass through the road after the storm sewer drain got blocked. “Foul smell emits from the place and it has become haven for mosquitoes. Dengue cases are already being reported and such blockages had only made the situation worse,” he said.
Another city resident Kulwant Kaur said she had often seen people discarding off garbage from their homes and littering on roads which sometimes leads to blockage of drains. Sometimes when heavy vehicles passes through the road, it leads to breakage of these drains. “It is a collective responsibility and people should be alert and conscious and do not let drains get blocked,” she added.
A shopkeeper near Clock Tower said the problem was faced by them all through the year which aggravates during monsoons.
One should clear any debris that might be blocking the drain which could include branches, leaves and other large objects. Mosquito breeding also takes place due to stagnant water. Hence, these drains should be cleaned at regular intervals, he said.