Residents who live near Buddha Dariya are currently experiencing ongoing fear as water is entering their streets and homes. The drain is completely filled and in some areas, it has caused erosion. City officials have prepared sandbags to handle any situations, but residents are expressing dissatisfaction, claiming that it is not enough. One local resident stated, “Civic officials have taken superficial measures to strengthen the drain’s banks by adding debris to one side. In certain locations, the water level is almost equal to that of the road.”
Various areas within MC limits, including Tajpur Road, Basti Jodhewal, Sunder Nagar, Shivpuri, Kundanpuri, Chander Nagar, Haibowal, and Gopal Nagar are all at risk of flooding. In some locations, the water has already reached the overhead bridges.
A resident from Chander Nagar expressed concern, stating, “Officials have reduced the width of the drain under the pretense of lining the channel, and this overflow may be a result of that action. We may face a situation similar to that of Tajpur Road. Officials need to find a permanent solution to this problem as the drain could cause significant destruction.”
Another resident from Kundanpuri, Sumit Sharma, shared, “Every time it rains, water from Buddha Nullah enters our lane, making it difficult to travel. Officials have failed to resolve this issue for many years.” He mentioned that debris had been placed at the drain’s banks to prevent overflow, but it has proven inadequate.
On the other hand, MC Commissioner Shena Aggarwal stated, “Due to unexpected water flow in Buddha Dariya, the water level has risen. We are making efforts to handle it, but residents living near the drain must remain vigilant.”
In addition, the city has experienced rain for three consecutive days while the daytime temperature remains below average. The meteorological department predicts that wet weather will continue and has issued a yellow alert for the next two days. According to the department, Ludhiana recorded 103.2 millimeters of rainfall between 8.30 am on Wednesday and 8.30 am on Thursday.
