Excavation for civic works including laying of sewage pipes has caused many accidents and other problems in different areas of the State capital. Exasperated by such excavations, the residents of Mohitnagar led by the Municipal Councillor, staged a protest and blocked traffic on the busy Chakrata Road here on Friday.
Angered by long standing patches of excavated sites, the residents of Mohitnagar led by the Municipal Councillor Amita Singh blocked the Chakrata Road near the IMA Blood Bank. The protesting locals said that there were various colonies including Vijay Park Extension, Vivek Vihar, Hari Vihar and Nehru Enclave among others in ward number 53 Mohitnagar where roads had been dug up for sewer works but not yet repaired. The recent rains have worsened the condition of such roads which is exacerbating the problems being faced by residents and other road users.
The protesting locals complained that due to the failure of the department concerned to repair roads dug up for sewer works, the people were finding it hard to even use their vehicles on such roads after the recent rains. The situation has worsened to such an extent in some areas that the residents are experiencing a situation akin to an undeclared curfew. The local councillor complained that the sewer work was executed mainly by labourers and supervisors while no other departmental official visits the area to monitor the work. The absence of physical checks by the officials allows the workers and supervisors to work as they will, she said.
The councillor has demanded that taking cognizance of the situation, the district magistrate should direct officials of the executing agency to finish the road repairs without delay. The protest caused traffic congestion on Chakrata Road which could be resolved only later when officials were able to assure the protesters of necessary action.