Ranchi Ward 13 Residents Endure Civic Neglect Ahead of Municipal Elections
In Ranchi, the daily lives of residents in Ward 13 have become a relentless struggle due to severe civic deficiencies, including traffic congestion, clogged drains, and poor sanitation. With the Ranchi Municipal Corporation (RMC) elections held on February 23, less than a week ago, the ward—encompassing parts of Samlong, Pragati Path, Nayatoli, and the bustling Khadgada bus stand area—is now hopeful that their votes will finally bring about the much-needed transformation they have long awaited.
Infrastructure Fails to Keep Pace with Population Growth
Many residents have alleged that basic urban infrastructure has failed to keep up with the area's growing population, which now exceeds 22,000 people. This neglect has led to a host of problems that affect daily living conditions. Seven candidates are contesting from Ward 13 in the recent municipal election, each promising to address these pressing issues.
Traffic Chaos and Environmental Hazards at Khadgada Bus Stand
At the Khadgada bus stand, heavy vehicular movement and encroachment of roadsides by vendors result in persistent traffic congestion. The ongoing flyover construction has further exacerbated the situation, with dust and noise pollution becoming routine complaints for locals. Ward candidate Prabhu Dayal Baraik emphasized the severity of the issue, stating, "Because Khadgada is a major bus stand, traffic is already heavy. Right now, it is pathetic and choking. Without proper regulation and traffic management, the situation will only worsen."
Residential Areas Plagued by Narrow Lanes and Health Risks
In residential pockets such as Nayatoli, Kathartoli, Raza Colony, and Makchundtoli, residents point to narrow lanes and open drains as critical concerns. Candidate Richa Singh Munda highlighted the dangers, saying, "We have narrow lanes and wide-open drains, many of which are clogged. Another major problem is the mosquito menace. There is always a risk of vector-borne diseases. The irony is that there are no proper health clinics in the area. We are all grappling with these issues."
Broader Civic Neglect and Public Health Threats
Residents have also flagged numerous other problems, including:
- Cratered roads and broken pavements
- Defunct street lights and irregular garbage collection
- Uncovered drains that emit foul odors and overflow during rains
Local resident Farzana Khatoon described how stray cattle frequently crowd narrow by-lanes near open dumping points, stating, "Cows and pigs gather around clogged drains where garbage is dumped, blocking movement. Sometimes, even two-wheelers cannot pass. And at night, it becomes a dog menace. They howl as if they are in the wild."
Another resident, Ajay Oraon, added to the concerns, noting, "Our lanes are already narrow, and the open drains remain choked for weeks. The foul smell and stagnant water make daily life difficult." These issues collectively paint a picture of broader civic neglect that has left Ward 13 residents yearning for effective governance and improved amenities.
