A significant road development project in Bhopal, initially hailed as a solution to traffic woes, has now become a source of major public distress. Residents are raising loud objections over a critical omission in its design: the absence of a proper drainage system, which they fear will lead to severe flooding and property damage.
Project Enthusiasm Turns to Alarm Over Design Flaw
The road construction work, connecting the SOS area to the Awadhpuri Tri-section, carries an estimated cost of about Rs 3 crore. While locals initially welcomed it for its promise to ease congestion and improve connectivity, their optimism has been replaced by serious concern. They point to what they describe as a fundamental design flaw—the new road has no designated drains on either side.
"Without a proper outlet for rainwater, I fear severe waterlogging and flooding of nearby houses," said Anmol Gupta, a resident, capturing the widespread anxiety. The concern is particularly acute with the monsoon season approaching.
Topography Amplifies the Risk of Water Channeling
The geographical layout of the area, according to residents, makes the oversight even more dangerous. The new road passes between two elevated sections, flanked by the high boundary wall of the Jamboree Ground on one side and a row of houses on the other.
Ramnaresh, another local, explained the peril to TOI, stating that this topography leaves no natural escape route for rainwater. He warned that this effectively turns the road into a channel that could direct water straight into their homes.
Residents Demand Action, Officials Remain Silent
Frustrated citizens have repeatedly approached municipal authorities, arguing that basic drainage is not an add-on but an essential component of any road project. They contend that its exclusion undermines the road's durability and creates safety hazards for all users.
"The omission of drainage undermined the long-term durability of the road and threatened to create safety hazards for pedestrians and motorists," emphasized resident Visheh Gupta. They also worry that repeated exposure to water will weaken the road surface, leading to premature damage and higher future maintenance costs for the city.
After getting no satisfactory explanation from their local councillor, residents are now urging the concerned department to pause the ongoing work immediately. They demand that a comprehensive drainage plan be incorporated before project completion, warning that failure to act will result in greater losses once the rains arrive. When contacted for their response, concerned officials refused to comment on the controversy.
