Sambalpur: Cleanliness System Fails in Ward No. 31; Drainage Problems Persist Despite Complaints, Commissioner Promises to Resolve Drainage Issues Before Sital Sasthi
Ward 31 Struggles with Drainage and Sanitation Issues
Sambalpur: Residents of Ward 31 in Sambalpur city are facing serious problems due to poor drainage and sanitation. Despite spending public funds and receiving government aid, the situation has not improved, and people are now demanding immediate action.
Overflowing Drains and Piled-Up Garbage
The drainage system and roads in areas like Pensionpada, Kumbharpada, Dharmashala Lane, and Lakshmi Talkies have been in a poor state for years. Drains are either missing or completely clogged with garbage. Moreover, the roads are covered in waste, causing severe inconvenience. Residents complain that no one knows when the municipality last cleaned these areas.
Mosquitoes, Pests, and Health Hazards
As drains remain clogged and garbage piles up, mosquitoes, flies, and even reptiles are entering houses. The waste has created breeding grounds for disease-carrying insects. Locals say that despite repeated complaints, Sambalpur Municipal Corporation (SMC) officials have failed to act.
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Lack of Accountability and Elected Representation
Residents, like Sheikh Rasid from Pensionpada, expressed frustration that although these are important parts of the city, the problems have never been resolved. Since there is no elected local representative for this ward, officials are allegedly ignoring people’s complaints. Locals also question how the taxes they pay and the government funds are being used, as no improvement is visible.
Residents Threaten Protest
People are finding it difficult to step out of their homes due to the filth on the roads. They have warned that if the situation does not improve soon, they will be forced to protest. They urged the administration to take immediate action to restore cleanliness and fix the drainage system.
SMC Assures Cleaning Will Be Done
In response, SMC Commissioner Vedbhushan said that drain cleaning work has already started in some areas. He also informed that road repairs and cleaning will be carried out as per a new tender. The target is to complete most of the work before the Sital Sasthi festival. However, some work may continue after the festival.
