Residents of Hasanabad and adjoining areas in Kangan town of Ganderbal district have demanded construction of a proper drainage system in the area. “In absence of a proper drainage system, roads in our locality get waterlogged besides the water entering homes makes it difficult for people to move out,” said a local Manzoor Ahmad.
Locals said that they are finding themselves engulfed in a dire situation as they struggle in absence of a proper drainage system. “ With each rainfall, their lanes turn into pools of stagnant water, rendering movement difficult and sanitation compromised. Frustration has mounted over the years, with promises of action remaining unfulfilled and the community’s pleas for assistance seemingly falling on deaf ears.”
“For the past few years, we have been tirelessly awaiting the construction of a proper drainage system,” Ghulam Rasool, a local resident said. “During rains, our lanes resemble streams, and navigating through ankle-deep water becomes a daunting task.”
The lack of a proper drainage system has turned “our daily lives into a constant struggle.” Local residents while highlighting the ongoing issue of the area’s failed drainage system said that the downpour causes water levels to rise rapidly, leading to the overflow of the drainage system and causing flood like situation in residential areas, markets and nearby government schools.
Local residents said that they have repeatedly urged the authorities to implement a proper drainage system in these areas. However, despite their pleas, no concrete action has been taken so far.
Manzoor Ahmad, a local resident, pointed out that in addition to the faulty drainage system, encroachment by some people in certain areas of the drain has exacerbated the problem. He added that officials from the Revenue Department and other concerned departments visited the area to assess the situation. “But what we need now is a proper, lasting solution,” Ahmad said. According to residents, the area is prone to minor floods whenever it rains, causing recurring hardships for the local population.
They once again urged the authorities to take immediate action to address the drainage issue and prevent future incidents.