Rain compounds sewage woes, leaving city residents in trouble

Persistent sewage issues have already troubled city residents and the recent rain has further exacerbated the situation.

With inadequate drainage and overflowing sewage, many streets across various localities are now waterlogged, causing inconvenience to the public. The problem is particularly severe in low-lying areas where stagnant water has made movement extremely difficult. Children and the elderly are especially affected as navigating through flooded streets poses safety risks.

The Municipal Corporation (MC) continues to receive a high volume of complaints for urgent resolution. Residents have been consistently urging the authorities to take immediate action. The growing number of grievances highlights the urgent need for systematic sewerage upgrades and improved storm water management.

Officials have acknowledged the situation and said response teams are being mobilised to address the worst-affected areas. However, residents await swift and lasting solutions to this ongoing civic challenge.

In response to the ongoing challenges posed by the monsoon, a high-level coordination meeting was convened by the Commissioner, Municipal Corporation, Jalandhar. The meeting focused on addressing public grievances related to sewage overflows, waterlogging, and inadequate drainage conditions across various residential colonies.

Taking serious note of the situation, the Commissioner issued strict directives to all departments, mandating that each complaint be resolved within 24 hours of receipt. Officers were cautioned that any delay or negligence would result in disciplinary action under applicable service rules.

Acting swiftly, the MC has intensified field operations across all zones. As a result, 60 out of 72 complaints were resolved within the stipulated time-frame. On-ground teams have been deployed for continuous inspections, urgent repairs, and real-time updates, all monitored via a centralised dashboard by senior officials.

In anticipation of further rainfall, the corporation has ramped up preparedness measures. Super suction machines and jetting units have been stationed at flood-prone locations to swiftly manage sewer blockages. Extensive desilting drives have been carried out across primary, secondary, and tertiary drains to improve stormwater management capacity.

Additionally, 24×7 mobile rapid-response teams are on standby, especially in low-lying areas. Streetlighting audits have been completed, with repairs underway to eliminate dark spots and enhance visibility during heavy rain.

“Flood-mapping assessments have helped identify critical catchment zones. Engineering teams have been instructed to inspect and reinforce vulnerable manholes and stormwater inlets, with slab-raising works initiated where necessary," the officials said.

The Health and Sanitation Wing has also intensified fogging and chlorination efforts in waterlogged areas to curb the spread of vector-borne diseases.

Jalandhar