Jammu: Former minister Raman Bhalla on Friday expressed concern over the delayed execution of a drainage and flood mitigation project in Gangyal, saying the area remains vulnerable to flooding ahead of the monsoon season.
The issue came to the fore after rainfall triggered water accumulation and overflowing drains in Sectors 1, 3 and 4 of Ward No. 56, reviving concerns among residents about recurring waterlogging and flooding in the locality.
Locals alleged that a drainage improvement and flood protection project worth nearly ₹2 crore, sanctioned to strengthen the drainage network in the area and provide relief from recurring flooding, has yet to be implemented despite administrative approvals.
Residents also claimed that work on the project has not commenced on the ground, raising apprehensions about public safety with the onset of the monsoon season.
Responding to the concerns, Bhalla, accompanied by former Jammu Municipal Corporation Chairman Satish Sharma, visited the area and interacted with residents. He reviewed the situation and listened to grievances regarding drainage infrastructure and delays in the execution of sanctioned works.
During the visit, Bhalla spoke with officials of the Jammu Municipal Corporation and urged them to ensure the immediate commencement of the project.
Addressing residents, Bhalla said Gangyal has been facing waterlogging and flooding issues for years due to inadequate drainage infrastructure. He termed the delay in initiating the sanctioned project as unfortunate and said essential civic infrastructure works should be prioritised, particularly before the monsoon season.
He also highlighted broader civic concerns across Jammu and Kashmir, including drainage, road infrastructure, water supply, sanitation and power-related issues, and called for improved urban planning and timely execution of public works.
The former minister urged authorities to strengthen monitoring of contractors and ensure that projects related to public safety are completed within stipulated timelines. He also called for a comprehensive review of flood-prone areas and the formulation of a robust monsoon preparedness plan.
According to Bhalla, officials assured him that work on the drainage project would commence within the next one to two days. Residents, however, said they would continue to monitor the situation closely and sought early execution of the project to avoid flooding during the monsoon season.
A large number of residents and community representatives were present during the visit.
