The arrival of the monsoon in Faridabad has once again highlighted deep-rooted failures in local infrastructure. Even though the rains have subsided, the situation at the Asawati railway underpass in the Prithla assembly constituency remains dire. The underpass continues to be filled with water, creating massive obstacles for daily commuters. Residents state that this is not a recent development; rather, the underpass has suffered from persistent waterlogging since the day it was constructed. During the rainy season, conditions worsen to such an extent that cars and motorcycles frequently get stuck in the deep water.
Villagers Struggle Throughout the Year
Local resident Vinod, who frequently uses this route, explained that the situation is particularly critical whenever it rains. Water levels rise significantly, causing vehicles to become submerged. This road acts as a vital link, connecting approximately 36 villages to the main city. When this access point is blocked, the entire region faces significant turmoil.
Lack of Alternative Routes
Another local resident, Devi Ram, noted that the nearby Jataula underpass is also in a similar state. He expressed the frustration of the community by asking how they are expected to navigate their daily tasks. He emphasized that the underpass remains flooded for all 12 months of the year. With construction work currently underway on the Pyala railway flyover, residents have no alternative pathways available. Attempting a detour via Ballabgarh forces travelers to cover an additional 40 kilometers. This crisis impacts everyone, from students traveling to school and daily wage earners to farmers needing to transport their produce.
Demand for a Permanent Solution
Residents like Sanjay and Kunwarpal mentioned that they are forced to wade through this water even when it has not rained recently. During heavy monsoon spells, water levels reach two and a half to three feet, making it dangerous for drivers who fear their engines will fail mid-transit. Sunny, another villager, reported that attempts to pump out the water were made yesterday, but the underpass flooded again almost immediately. Vikas Rawat expressed his disappointment, noting that they have been enduring this problem for years without seeing any permanent solution. Often, when the water reaches knee-deep levels or higher, schools are forced to declare holidays, and employees struggle to reach their workplaces. The consistent demand from the villagers is that the authorities move beyond temporary fixes like pumping out water and instead invest in a permanent solution that ensures their lives are not disrupted every single monsoon season.
