THE residents of Bhatta Chowk in Raw-alpindi’s Malikabad area have been worried about the poor condition of roads and government’s inaction in this regard. The main road and streets from Bhatta Chowk to Gulshan-i-Khursheed, located within the constituencies of NA-54 Rawalpindi-III and PP-12 Rawalpindi-VI, have been lying in a deplorable state.

Stagnant water on streets littered with potholes and open manholes is a serious hazard for the community. The area is home to thousands of residents, but the government as well as those elected from the relevant constituencies have shown no interest at all in addressing the issue.

The residents have lodged complaints a number of times through various forums, and have approached the relevant district authorities, but their concerns have not been addressed. In fact, most of the officials have simply told them that either the area or the issue does not fall under their jurisdiction.

The higher authorities, particularly the provincial chief secretary and the chief minister, should take immediate notice of the matter and order action. Negligence could result in serious harm or loss of life, and the government will be responsible for any unfortunate incident.

Israr ul Haq Nasir
Rawalpindi

Published in Dawn, November 18th, 2024