Munish Sood
MANDI:
The residents of Gutkar along NH-21 near Mandi in Himachal Pradesh have once again raised serious concerns over the long-pending issue of blocked drains, water stagnation and unhygienic conditions in their locality.
A fresh written representation has been submitted to the Mandi Deputy Commissioner, with copies sent to the Municipal Corporation Commissioner, Balh SDM at Ner Chowk, PWD Executive Engineer at Ner Chowk and the councillor of Ward No. 15, demanding immediate intervention.
In his letter, Kartik Mahajan of Naina Niwas, Gutkar, recalled that the matter had first been formally reported on 18 June 2020, but despite repeated appeals over the past five years, no effective measures have been implemented. He said that stagnant water on the national highway stretch near Dhuja Car Wash up to Jagjiwan Industry has been creating multiple problems for both residents and commuters.
Among the issues highlighted are formation of potholes on the highway, endangering vehicles and daily traffic; stagnant water becoming a breeding ground for mosquitoes, leading to a rising threat of diseases such as dengue and malaria; and persistent foul smell and unhygienic conditions, making normal life unbearable for families, particularly those with small children.
Residents also allege that the problem has been made worse by a car washing centre operating adjacent to Mahajan’s residence. According to the complaint, the owners have blocked the drainage with sand and gravel, preventing water from flowing through the nullah. Wastewater from car washing activities is discharged directly onto the road, worsening the mess. “Despite repeated requests, the nuisance continues on a daily basis,” Mahajan said, attaching video evidence along with his representation.
The letter further highlights how the matter has been caught in administrative confusion. “Every time we approach the concerned authorities, we are redirected from one department to another. The PWD says it falls under the Municipal Corporation, while the Municipal Corporation points to PWD. Amidst this blame-shifting, the residents continue to suffer,” the letter stated.
Seeking urgent on-ground action, the residents have requested the Deputy Commissioner to personally visit the site and direct departments to clear the blocked drains, including those obstructed by the car washing centre; ensure proper drainage and water flow along NH-21; take strict action against unauthorised blocking of public drains and implement a long-term drainage plan to prevent recurrence.
Calling the matter “not just a civic inconvenience but a question of health, dignity, and citizens’ well-being,” Mahajan reiterated that the residents are ready to fully cooperate with the administration in finding a permanent solution.
Ananjay Kumari, ward councillor, when contacted, said that she had received a verbal complaint regarding this car washing centre long time back from Mahajan, but no written complaint had been submitted to her so far. “I had also directed the car washing station owner not to spread dirt outside his premises, but it seems they might not be following that now. I will personally look into the matter today,” she said.
