Tribune News Service

Jalandhar, November 10

Ruing that their colonies are surrounded by railway lines and drains affecting their connectivity with adjoining areas, the residents of Ram Nagar and Gandhi Nagar localities falling under Ward No. 70 are demanding construction of an underpass or an overbridge for better access.

The members of the Royal Club representing people of both the colonies have said that they have been consistently taking up the matter with their area MLA Bawa Henry and MP Chaudhary Santokh Singh but to no avail. Now they have now shot off a missive to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

Led by general secretary SP Birdi, the members have shared their woes: “Ram Nagar and Gandhi Nagar localities are thickly populated areas. These ill-fated areas are cut off from all sides. While one side is covered by Bist Doab Canal, the second side is covered by DAV institutions, the third is covered by the busy Amritsar railway line and the fourth side is covered by Ferozepur railway line.”

They further lamented: “In case of emergency arising due to health issues, accident or fire outbreak, we cannot move according to our need or wish. Even the rescue vehicles like ambulance, fire extinguisher etc cannot enter our area. It may seem a bit ironical but we feel captive at times just like prisoners as there is no proper way to reach our destination in time. We are sandwitched between two railway lines. Due to heavy rush of trains, Ram Nagar crossings remains closed for most part of the day. Our life has been very miserable as we cannot often reach our destinations on time”.

Birdi said: “There is a small waterway near Gazigulla Railway crossing on Ferozepur railway line. This waterway which connects the colonies with an area near Jalandhar City Railway Station can be used as small underpass after carrying out proper renovation. This can prove to be a great relief to the residents of both localities.” The residents have proposed this as a standby, quicker way to mitigate their problems and hardships.