Alamdar Colony inhabitants decry lack of drainage system

By Rabiya Bashir

Srinagar, Apr 18: People living in Alamdar Colony of Buchpora Srinagar are exposed to serious health risks, as the area lacks proper drainage system.
The residents of Alamdar Colony C in Rangpora area of Illahi bagh, Buchpora said that rainwater mixed with sewage gets stagnated on the lane, which is yet to be tar topped.
“We are finding it very difficult to walk on the streets, which turn extremely slippery due to continuous stagnation of water. Even children in the area often walk on the streets barefoot, risking their health,” said Nazir Ahmad, a resident of the colony.
They said that despite approaching the authorities, their problems are not solved. “We are tired now. We don’t want to stay here anymore. Our property is worth a Crore but due to the absence of drainage system none is ready to buy our house,” said Sameena, another resident of the colony.
The residents said that the water coming from nearby paddy fields seeps into our colony creating immense hardships for them.
They complained the smell emanating from the stagnated water becomes unbearable for them.
“ We never open our windows due to the foul smell coming from the lane. It is risking our lives. Our children easily fall sick due to the stench and stagnant water,” said residents.
“ Our pleas to construct proper drainage system in the area fell on deaf ears. “The authorities are not even ready to listen to our grievances. They have neglected us every time,” the residents said.
The residents urged the concerned authorities to initiate immediate steps to construct a proper drainage system in the colony.
Imtiyaz Ahmad Qazi, Superintending Engineer, who is handling the City drainage said that due to the paucity of the funds they are not able to construct the drainage system.
“Whenever we receive funds from the government then only we will be able to provide drainage system to the colony and other areas,” he said.
He further said that the residents living in the colony should make a representation and submit it to the SMC Commissioner.
“After submitting the representation we will make a project and provide drainage facilities to the colony,” he said.