Kaithal MC’s drain-cleaning drive sparks traders’ protest

The Kaithal Municipal Council (MC) authorities removed concrete slabs and ramps covering the drains in front of shops in the market near Bhagat Singh Chowk on Wednesday night, as part of a drain-cleaning drive. The move sparked resentment among traders, who blocked the road on Thursday, alleging that the action was taken without a prior notice or communication.

Some shopkeepers had objected to the action on Wednesday night and tried to stop the authorities from carrying out the drive. Protesting shopkeepers alleged that the Municipal Council acted irresponsibly.

“If the authorities wanted to clean the drains, they should have at least informed the shopkeepers or issued a notice. Instead, the action was taken at night,” said one of the shopkeepers.

They also claimed that the removal of the slabs would negatively impact their business, as the customers would now find it difficult to reach their shops. “Now, the customers will have trouble accessing our shops, and there is also a risk of waterlogging in the market,” said another shopkeeper.

The traders demanded that senior officials visit the site to address their concerns. On receiving information, the police reached the spot and pacified the protesting traders. The Station House Officer (SHO) assured them that their grievances would be forwarded to the

officials concerned.

Sushil Malik, District Municipal Commissioner (DMC), Kaithal, said the action was necessary to address the issue of waterlogging during rainfall. “For thorough cleaning of the drains, some slabs had to be removed. We have assured the traders that there will be no inconvenience caused to them and the slabs will be placed back after proper cleaning,” said Malik.

Meanwhile, Kaithal MLA Aditya Surjewala met with traders, and extended his support. He criticised the step taken by the MC.

Haryana Tribune