Residents Agitated Over Choked Drain, Question Silence of Executive Officer MC Rajouri 

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

Despite Repeated Complaints, No Action Taken; Locals Forced to Clean Drain at Their Own Expense

LIAQAT ALI KHATANA

RAJOURI AUGUST 18:-Residents of Ward No. 04 in Rajouri continue to grapple with mounting civic woes as the issue of a clogged drain has remained unresolved for several months. The silence of the Municipal Council authorities, particularly the Executive Officer MunicipalCouncil Rajouri(EO), has drawn sharp criticism from locals who allege repeated complaints have been ignored.

According to BJP leader Radesh Sharma, the ward’s main drain has been completely blocked for nearly two years. As a result, during rains, dirty water enters streets and houses, creating unbearable conditions with foul smell and filth. Families have complained that the situation is affecting the health of children and the elderly, raising fears of dengue and other waterborne diseases.

Sharma highlighted that despite submitting written complaints to the Municipal Council in both 2024 and 2025, no action was taken to clear the drain. “Every time it rains, water flows straight into our homes and shops. We have raised the matter with the EO in meetings and through formal applications, but nothing has been done. Eventually, residents had to pool money and hire laborers to clean the drain themselves. It is shameful that a responsibility that clearly lies with the Municipal Council is being forced upon common citizens,” he said.

Locals confirmed that they collectively raised funds and arranged for manual cleaning of the drain, removing silt and garbage. However, they fear this solution is only temporary, as the drain will again choke during the monsoon season. They argue that unless the administration undertakes regular cleaning and repairs, the problem will persist.

The EO’s silence and the administration’s indifference have sparked growing anger among residents. They have warned that if immediate action is not taken, they will stage protests and gherao the Municipal Council office.

Appealing to the district administration, residents demanded that the matter be taken seriously and responsible officials held accountable. “This case exposes the negligence of the authorities and the helplessness of the people. In a city like Rajouri, which is sensitive and rapidly developing, the neglect of basic civic amenities not only raises questions about the functioning of the administration but also casts doubt on the accountability of local bodies,” Sharma concluded.