Amritsar's 'Holy City' Residents Demand Financial Package for Development
Residents and various organizations in Amritsar's walled city have called for a special financial package. This area was recently declared a 'Holy City'. They want comprehensive development to tackle long-standing issues.
Urgent Sewerage System Overhaul Needed
Vipul Nevtia, an executive member of the Amritsar Piece Goods Association, spoke out on Tuesday. He emphasized the urgent need to fix the old sewerage system. "Our primary demand is the urgent overhaul of the old and worn-out sewerage system," Nevtia said. "It has outlived its capacity."
He described daily problems faced by residents and pilgrims. Choked drains and overflowing manholes are common. Foul-smelling lanes create unpleasant conditions for everyone in the area.
Traffic Snarls Disrupt Daily Life
Nevtia also highlighted traffic management as a pressing concern. Municipal corporation garbage lifting trolleys enter extremely narrow streets. This leaves barely enough space for two-wheelers to pass.
Poor planning and lack of regulation frequently cause traffic snarls. These disruptions affect daily life in an already congested area.
Chronic Garbage Disposal Issues
Sameer Jain of the Punjab Pradesh Vyopar Mandal addressed garbage disposal problems. He called it a chronic issue. "Many residents throw waste a short distance away from their homes," Jain explained. "They assume it no longer concerns them."
This practice turns streets and corners into dumping spots. Civic groups now demand night-time sweeping and cleaning. They cite the continuous footfall of devotees as a key reason.
Health Risks During Monsoon
Sujata Rani, a resident of Katra Baggian area, shared her experience. During monsoon, the Galliara area frequently gets submerged. A toxic mix of rainwater and sewage creates unbearable conditions.
This situation poses serious health risks for pilgrims and locals alike. Jain reiterated the need for government action. He said the government must announce a financial package for the 'Holy City' to overcome these hurdles.
Uncertainty Over Meat and Tobacco Traders
Meanwhile, uncertainty continues for meat and tobacco traders. Although banned within the walled city, dealers sought more time from the municipal corporation. They cited the absence of alternative vending locations.
No clear rehabilitation plan has been announced so far. Confusion also prevails among residents and visitors. Sujata said they were unsure whether cooking meat brought from outside was permitted.
Similar ambiguity surrounds cigarette smoking. Ironically, despite restrictions, a majority of hotels in the area continue to serve liquor. This often happens "illegally" according to reports.
Allegations of Rampant Prostitution
Adding to the controversy are allegations of rampant prostitution. Local sources claim it operates from several hotels. Rooms are rented for as little as Rs 500 to Rs 1,000 per hour.
Sometimes these rooms get used 8 to 12 times a day. This generates significant income while authorities allegedly look the other way. The situation highlights broader governance challenges in the area.
The collective demand for a financial package grows louder. Residents hope it will bring much-needed development to Amritsar's 'Holy City'.
