Execution appeal pushes MC into action, road repair begins in Defence Colony
On the day of the hearing on the execution petition filed by residents of Defence Colony here, led by their society general secretary Harbinder Singh through advocate Vikram Dutta, the Municipal Corporation (MC) finally swung into action and began long overdue repair work on the colony’s main road.
The petition was filed over the MC’s failure to comply with a Permanent Lok Adalat order issued in October 2024, directing it to complete road repair by November 30.
After months of inaction, it was only when the execution appeal came up before the Lok Adalat that the MC responded.
Speaking to Jalandhar Tribune, advocate Dutta said, “The MC counsel appeared in the court and assured the Lok Adalat that the road would be repaired on priority and the work would begin the same day. To our relief, the MC actually began repairs and the work is now progressing well.”
Dutta added that if the current pace of work continues and the road is restored soon or before the next hearing on May 15, the residents would consider withdrawing the execution appeal.
Meanwhile, the road, which connects Defence Colony to PAP Chowk, had remained in a crumbling state for over two years. Despite the Lok Adalat’s clear directive last year, the MC had only carried out cosmetic repairs by recarpeting one side of the road while leaving the other covered in gravel, which the residents said made the situation worse.
“The loose gravel turned into a hazard. Two-wheeler riders frequently skidded and several minor accidents occurred,” said a resident, adding that it’s unfortunate that it took a legal push to get the MC moving, but they are glad their efforts have finally borne fruit.
Residents expressed hope that the full stretch would soon be motorable and pothole-free. “This road has been a nightmare. It’s riddled with potholes and becomes almost unmanageable after dark,” said another local. “For over two years, we kept raising the issue but were met with apathy.”
They said now that the work has started in earnest, they are watching closely to ensure it is completed on time. “The next hearing is scheduled for May 15 by which time we hope the road will finally be restored to a safe and usable condition”, they added.
Jalandhar