Ranchi's Ward 9 Grapples with Severe Infrastructure Deficiencies
In Ranchi, a significant portion of residents in ward No. 9 are enduring persistent hardships due to a lack of water supply, inadequate drainage systems, and narrow, broken roads. This ward encompasses several colonies, including Bariatu Housing Colony, Dhelatoli, Rani Bagan, Tukitoli, and Tiril, where these issues have become a daily struggle for thousands.
Drainage and Road Woes Plague Local Communities
Upon entering Dhelatoli, a colony home to both tribal and non-tribal communities, residents are met with narrow lanes and open, choked drains. Locals report that these drains overflow even during moderate rainfall, making it nearly impossible for many to leave their homes. Ramesh Kumar Soni, a resident, explained, "With people leaving no space in front of their houses, constructing proper drains has become difficult. In some areas, the drains are uncovered, which further reduces road width and poses serious accident risks."
Another resident, Y.P. Singh Munda, highlighted the broader implications, stating, "Due to the absence of drains, low-lying areas witness severe waterlogging during the monsoon season. People also tend to dump household waste in open spaces, leading to waste accumulation at several points, exacerbating health and environmental concerns."
Water Supply Crisis and Groundwater Disparities
Drinking water supply remains a critical issue, particularly in Dhelatoli, where piped water is unavailable. Vivek Toppo, a resident, shared, "There is no piped water supply here, forcing people to depend on borewells, many of which dry up during the summer months. Under such circumstances, residents have to rely on neighbours who have water at that point in time, creating a precarious situation."
Residents also pointed to varying groundwater levels in the area, with some reporting that borewells must be dug up to 270 feet to find water, while others find it at around 80 feet. In response to this crisis, many have demanded the installation of solar-powered Jal Minars to ensure a regular and sustainable water supply. Notably, Sarvesh Kumar, a resident of Indraprastha Colony, mentioned that government water supply is available in his area, highlighting the uneven distribution of resources.
Additional Infrastructure Challenges: Street Lights and Road Conditions
Non-functional street lights were cited as another major concern across several colonies in Ward 9. Bimla Devi, a shopkeeper in Dhelatoli who has lived there for 25 years, said, "Street lights do not function in many places. I had to replace the light on the pole in front of my shop at my own cost, which is an unfair burden on residents."
Narrow roads in colonies such as Rani Bagan, Bariatu Housing Colony, and along the Cheshire Home Road have become a significant cause for concern, hindering mobility and safety. The combination of these issues paints a grim picture of urban neglect in this part of Ranchi.
Call for Action and Community Resilience
The residents of Ward 9 are calling for urgent intervention from local authorities to address these infrastructure failures. The persistent problems with water, drainage, roads, and lighting not only affect daily life but also pose long-term risks to public health and safety. As the community continues to navigate these challenges, their resilience underscores the need for comprehensive urban planning and timely governmental support to improve living conditions in Ranchi's underserved areas.
