Residents of Marhana village in Tarn Taran district have been demanding a safe crossing facility on National Highway 54 for over a decade, after at least 17 people lost their lives in accidents while attempting to cross the highway. The highway divides the village into two parts, but the nearest underpass is located nearly two kilometers away and is often filled with deep sludge, making it unusable.
Unsafe Highway Crossing Claims 17 Lives
Dr Inderjit Singh Marhana, a resident, stated that since the construction of NH54 more than ten years ago, 17 villagers have died in accidents while crossing the highway. He said that villagers have repeatedly requested highway authorities to provide an underpass or a suitable crossing point near the village, but their concerns have not been addressed.
The residents have demanded that an underpass or safe crossing facility be constructed near the village bus stand to prevent further accidents. Despite the loss of lives over the past decade, no permanent solution has been provided so far, the residents allege.
Poor Condition of Underpass Forces Risky Crossings
Due to the inconvenient location of the underpass and its poor condition, residents often have to travel an additional two kilometers to reach the other side of the village. They allege that the underpass remains filled with deep sludge, making it difficult to use. As a result, many residents are forced to cross the highway directly, risking their lives by violating safety norms.
Civic Problems Plague Marhana Village
Apart from the highway-related issue, residents are also facing several civic problems, including drinking water shortages, damaged roads, overflowing village ponds, and stench caused by stagnant wastewater. There is no proper drainage system for household wastewater, leading to stagnant dirty water on village streets and roads.
Village ponds, which have not been cleaned or desilted for years, are overflowing. Wastewater from households is also being discharged into these ponds, creating unhygienic conditions and foul odor, the residents add.
Unfinished Roads and Water Scarcity
The condition of village roads is also a matter of concern. Many roads are either damaged or remain incomplete after repair work was started. The road leading to Gurdwara Rathi Ke has been left unfinished, causing inconvenience to devotees visiting the religious site.
Residents of three localities — Gillan Di Patti, Sandhuan Di Patti, and Lidhran Di Patti — said they face difficulties due to inadequate drinking water facilities. These areas, largely inhabited by economically weaker sections, depend on nearby gurdwaras for their water requirements.
Urgent Need for Basic Amenities
The villagers said that stagnant wastewater has become a common sight in streets and pathways, affecting cleanliness and daily life. They have urged the authorities to address these long-pending issues and provide basic facilities to improve living conditions in the village.
