Harshraj Singh

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, May 17

As the MC has failed to stop the collection of solid waste in an old nullah (drain) that passes from Bhadaur House and other areas, the chances of waterlogging are likely to remain high in several parts of the old city during the upcoming rainy season, if timely action is not taken.

A huge amount of garbage has collected in the drain near Bhadaur House and other points in the old city areas. The matter was earlier brought to the notice of the MC but nothing was done to stop the collection of solid waste in the drain. Now, the residents demand from the MC to make sure cleaning of the drain is done before the rainy season.

Parminder Mehta, a Congress leader, said, “This old nullah is meant to drain out rainwater from old city areas. If it is not cleaned timely, major waterlogging will be witnessed in these areas. About Rs 1 crore was spent for the cleaning of the drain in the past but no step was taken to avoid the collection of waste in it. By following the Covid-related guidelines, the work to clean the drain can be carried out.”

The drain passes through Talab Bazaar, Chaura Bazaar, Bhadaur House, Damoria Bridge area and some other parts of the city. The water from this drain flows into the Buddha Nullah. A number of illegal sewers have also been connected with the drain as per the sources.

A shopkeeper said, “The MC should ensure the cleaning of the drain and take necessary steps to stop people from dumping solid waste in the drain. At present, the drain has got choked at different points due to dumping of garbage in it. The MC must take steps to ensure de-silting of the drain at the earliest so that the public do not face any inconvenience during the rainy season.”

The MC authorities had earlier given instructions to the officials to get all drains cleaned in the city. Superintending Engineer, Rajinder Singh could not be contacted for comments.