Ludhiana: Open urination along a wall near the city bus stand has become a persistent nuisance for passersby, local residents, and shopkeepers, with many complaining of an unbearable stench that lingers throughout the day.
Residents and commuters face daily ordeal
People using the narrow lane adjoining the bus stand say they are forced to cover their noses while passing through the stretch. "The smell is terrible and remains there 24x7. It becomes extremely difficult to walk through the lane, especially during peak hours," said a resident. The openings at the bottom of the wall allow the stench to spread both into the bus stand premises and adjoining areas.
Existing facilities ignored
Although washrooms are available inside the bus stand, people continue to relieve themselves along the wall, residents complain. They suggest that additional public toilets and clearer directions toward them could help address the issue. Shopkeepers in the vicinity say the problem is not only affecting hygiene but also impacting their work and business, as customers often complain about the foul conditions.
Shopkeepers voice frustration
Jagroop Singh, an automotive electrician with a shop nearby, said repeated complaints have not yielded any results. "Our complaints have fallen on deaf ears. People lack civic sense. When questioned, they respond with anger instead of understanding the problem," he said. Damanpreet Singh, who runs a spare parts store in the area, added, "Customers frequently complain about the stench they have to pass through. It creates a very bad impression of the area."
Demand for stricter enforcement
Rajesh Kumar, who operates a dhaba nearby, stressed the need for strict monitoring and imposition of penalties to stop people from urinating near the bus stand or in the vicinity. Residents and traders said stricter enforcement, installation of barriers or deterrents along the wall, and warning messages about penalties should be put in place to prevent people from relieving themselves there.
