E-Paper
Residents stuck in muck
Perennial problem of waterlogging, stagnation, foul smell persists; authorities fail to clear drain.
Along with monsoons come the same age-old problems of waterlogging, stagnation, overflowing drains and health hazards.
Civic agencies like the Haryana Urban Development Authority (Huda) do not seem to have learnt a lesson from the past years.
A stormwater drain at DLF Phase-4 has become a source of unending nuisance for residents living in posh localities of Richmond Park, Regency Park and others. Covered with wild weeds, plants and algae, the drain is an eyesore, apart from being a health hazard.
“Water is supposed to flow out in its natural course and the surrounding areas should be maintained as green belts by departments concerned. Contrary to this, the drain has become land-locked from two sides, resulting in constant stagnation of water which emanates foul smell. Dead animals, polybags and sewage can be seen floating,” said NC Sinha, president of residents' welfare association (RWA), Richmond Park.
Following recent rains, the drain is on the verge of overflowing. It is a site for mosquito breeding and emanates unbearable smell.
HT had earlier carried a four-part series in February this year which saw some action coming from the civic agencies.
“Huda authorities in February had dug up the drain to maintain the natural flow of water but we don't know why work stopped midway,” said Sudhir Dhar, another resident of Richmond Park.
Huda had also drawn up an estimate of Rs 50 lakh in February and floated a tender to dig a connecting line to drain out the stagnant water.
“We started work on the drain but it could not be completed due to shortage of funds and it was postponed for the new financial year,” said a HUDA official, adding that he is not in-charge of the area now.
