Rain pours misery for Patiala residents

Heavy rainfall resulted in waterlogging in several parts of the city belying the tall claims of monsoon-preparedness made by the Municipal Corporation (MC).

The roads dug up for laying canal-based surface water project also added to the woes of commuters, particularly two-wheeler riders, as they had no option but to endure a bumpy ride amidst slush caused by rainfall.

Several areas, including Tripuri, Ratan Nagar, Anardana Chowk, Chandni Chowk, Arna Barna Chowk, Urban Estate Phase II, Model Town, Chhoti Baradari, Old and new Bus Stand, Phulkian Enclave and Lahal Colony, witnessed waterlogging, revealing the inadequacies of the city’s drainage system.

The waterlogged roads caused significant disruptions, with many vehicles breaking down, leading to snarl-ups. Pedestrians struggled to find dry paths amidst slush caused due to broken road.

The situation was exacerbated by the mixing of sewage with rainwater at various locations. The contaminated water posed health risks and further highlighted the city’s poor infrastructure.

For the residents of Tripuri and old city area, the rain does not bring delight. Worries and concerns were evident on the faces as they gazed towards the dark blanket of clouds enveloping the horizon.

Dalip Dhingra, a shopkeeper from Tripuri, said, “Water logging has become a perennial problem of monsoon. Each year, we face the same issue and we have resigned to fate and decided it is pointless to expect a solution from MC.”

Rajiv Sharma, a resident of Model Town also shares a similar agony, “Nearly an hour of rain and the streets are filled with water. To top it all the broken roads are adding to the trouble. Solution appears to be wishful thinking.”