Potholed roads, muddy streets put Ahmedgarh residents at risk

The majority of local roads in the town, as well as those connecting it to surrounding areas, have become nearly unmotorable due to potholes and poor maintenance.

The situation worsens during the rainy season as overflowing sewerage and stagnant water make the roads slippery, increasing the risk of accidents. Roads leading to Jandali, Kanganwal, Lohatbaddi, Raikot, Jagera, and Ghungrana are in particularly bad shape, turning daily commutes into bumpy and muddy ordeals.

Adding to the commuters’ woes, many portions of these roads remain submerged under rainwater and sewage, making it difficult to spot open manholes and deep pits.

Morning walkers, especially those who step out before sunrise, face the biggest risk as the potholes are barely visible in the darkness.

Justifying demands raised by residents, Municipal Council president Vikas Krishan Sharma said development works had been disrupted due to technical issues as laying of premix is not sustainable during winter according to engineers of the civic body.

“While earlier the development projects could not be started due to return of grants worth over Rs 6 crore, construction or repair work at almost all local roads has already been started,” said Sharma.

He further claimed that MLA Jaswant Singh Gajjanmajra had secured sufficient funds for road construction and repairs, and that work would accelerate once the weather became favourable for premix application.

However, residents remain frustrated, pointing out that almost all approach roads and key routes are in disrepair due to poor maintenance and frequent sewer overflows. Many have been forced to take longer, alternative routes to protect their vehicles from damage. Sources further revealed that lack of funds and lackadaisical attitude of concerned authorities had worsened the condition of the majority of roads connecting the town with surrounding localities.