Defunct drainage system irks Garden Lane residents

Srinagar, Oct 3: Residents of Garden Lane at Chanapora area here have expressed resentment against the failure of authorities to restore the defunct drainage system in the area.

The aggrieved residents said that drainage is overflowing most of the time, leaving roads and houses waterlogged. A delegation from the area said despite reaching out to the officials, the issue has not been addressed properly.

“Our drainage network used to function smoothly until around a year ago. However, the problem started after the drainage water of the adjacent colony was pumped into our drainage network. This overloaded the drainage system rendering it defunct,” said,” Zahoor Ahmad, a local.

He said that the drain water enters residential areas, and around 150 households are suffering due to the issue. “We don’t want temporary measures. These temporary measures are taking a toll on us. During rains our area turns into a cesspool,” said another local.

“Government must ensure proper drainage outlet for the adjacent Rose Lane area so that people of both localities don’t suffer due to the issue,” they said.

The residents said that they fear the issue will damage roads and residential houses and stagnated drain water can lead to waterborne diseases.

“In addition to foul smell, the area can be gripped by diseases. We reached out to authorities, but so far, we are only getting verbal assurances. We appeal to authorities to look into the issue and address it swiftly,” said the locals.

Assistant Executive Engineer SMC Gowher Bhat said that they have proceeded with the desilting of the drainage system, which has addressed the majority of the issue.

“In the past few days, there was a major issue that has been addressed by 80 percent. We will also look into the technicalities and see if the drainage line can be extended. In either case, we will ensure that the problem is addressed properly without any delay,” Bhat said.