The ageing post office building at Odhan in Sirsa district has become a major safety concern, with residents warning that the structure could collapse anytime.
Dilapidated Condition of the Building
The decades-old building, marked by cracked walls, peeling plaster and damaged flooring, continues to house postal operations despite its deteriorating condition. Every day, hundreds of visitors, including pensioners, women, students and customers of India Post Payments Bank, use the facility.
Residents said the building was below the road level, which often resulted in waterlogging during the monsoon. Years of exposure to stagnant water and dampness have weakened its foundation and walls, accelerating structural damage.
Residents Demand Immediate Action
Villagers alleged that the authorities have long been aware of the condition of the building but have failed to take concrete steps to address the issue. They questioned whether officials were waiting for a tragedy before acting.
Former Sarpanch Reena Beetar said representations highlighting the unsafe condition of the post office had been sent to the Prime Minister, Union Minister for Communications, Haryana Chief Minister and district authorities. She urged the department to immediately shift the post office to a safer building.
Official Response
Sajan Kataria, Sub-Division Inspector, Sirsa Post Office, said a proposal regarding the building had already been forwarded to the Ambala regional office.
“We have been directed to coordinate with the gram panchayat to identify a government building where the post office can be temporarily shifted. Discussions are underway and a solution is expected soon,” he said.
Monsoon Concerns
With the monsoon approaching, residents have intensified their demand for immediate relocation of the facility and the construction of a new building. They have also sought special safety measures to prevent any untoward incident during the rainy season.
