NO RELIEF FROM WATERLOGGING DESPITE CRORES SPENT

NO RELIEF FROM WATERLOGGING DESPITE CRORES SPENT

15-JULY-ENG 9

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA---------------------------For years, a persistent waterlogging problem has plagued the area near the Shiva temple at the southern end of Bihiya town on the Bihiya-Bihta State Highway (SH-102). Neither commuters nor local residents have found any relief from this issue. The accumulation of municipal drain water on the road is severely disrupting traffic.

The constant waterlogging poses a risk of accidents; several motorcyclists have already been injured after slipping in the water. Although this is a highly busy route with thousands of vehicles passing daily, conditions have deteriorated to the point where even walking has become difficult.

JD(U) leader Lal Bahadur Mahto has repeatedly drawn the district administration's attention to the waterlogging issue through letters. When the problem remained unresolved, he filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Patna High Court. Following the court's directive, the administration took action and constructed a PCC (Plain Cement Concrete) road section spanning approximately 250 meters.

However, as the construction of drains on both sides of the road remained incomplete, a permanent solution could not be achieved, and the waterlogging problem recurred.

Subsequently, the administration initiated the construction of an RCC drain on the western side (costing approximately ₹93 lakh) and an RCC outfall on the eastern side, stretching from the Shiva temple to the BIADA drain (costing approximately ₹1.40 crore). Yet, due to the slow pace of these works, an effective drainage system has not yet been established.

Currently, rainwater and drain water are once again accumulating on the state highway, causing immense inconvenience to motorists and pedestrians alike. Resentment among the local residents is growing.

JD(U) leader Lal Bahadur Mahto, who is spearheading a campaign against the waterlogging issue, has stated that he will not rest until a permanent solution is found. The problem of waterlogging on the Bihiya-Bihta State Highway, which has persisted for years, has now reached a critical stage. The fact that the issue remains unresolved despite the expenditure of crores of rupees raises questions about the administrative approach. It is now imperative to expedite the construction work and ensure a permanent solution.