Residents and shopkeepers on Kanwali Road in Dehradun have expressed strong dissatisfaction over severe dust pollution and worsening traffic congestion caused by ongoing pipeline-laying work. The excavation along the stretch has significantly reduced road space, disrupting daily movement and causing immense inconvenience.
Shopkeepers and residents voice concerns
Kuldeep Singh, a local shopkeeper, reported that digging on both sides of the road has been underway for more than ten days, leaving the entire area covered in a thick layer of dust. "The entire area has become extremely dusty because of the digging work. It has become unbearable for people living and working here," he said.
Residents highlighted that traffic congestion, particularly near Rawel Dairy, has worsened as the excavation has narrowed the available road space. "There is heavy traffic here throughout the day. Because of the digging work, the motorable portion of the road has reduced and the situation has worsened," a resident noted.
Additional issues: Garbage and encroachments
Apart from traffic and dust, locals pointed out poor garbage management in the area. Resident Pradeep Kumar Verma said garbage was scattered along the roadside and waste had accumulated in drains. "During rains, it floats in the water. Though water drains out naturally because of the slope, the garbage should be cleaned regularly," he emphasized.
Shopkeepers also raised concerns over encroachment on footpaths by vendors and commercial establishments. Trader Vikas Rekhi recalled that an anti-encroachment drive in 2018 had pushed shops back by about five feet to create space for footpaths, but encroachments gradually returned due to a lack of monitoring. "We were told the cleared area would be used to develop proper footpaths. But over time, many shops expanded again due to a lack of surveillance. Customers are reluctant to walk on the road in the absence of usable footpaths, which is affecting business as well," Rekhi said.
Rekhi also pointed out that old electricity poles continued to obstruct traffic despite the installation of new poles nearly a year ago. "The old poles are not properly aligned along the roadside and obstruct traffic movement. They should be removed immediately," he urged.
Official response and measures
Ward councillor Vishal Kumar stated that the district administration had earlier set a 10-15 day deadline for completion of the pipeline project, and the work was now nearing completion. "I have also raised a complaint on the CM portal seeking regular water sprinkling on the roads so that people can get some relief from the dust," he said.
Regarding streetlights, Kumar said the civic body had procured new poles and would install them once suitable locations were identified. He added that a budget for removing the old poles was being processed, and the work would be carried out through a private contractor.
