No escape from filth: Govt offices drown in civic apathy

In a grim reflection of municipal neglect, offices meant to steer agricultural development in the district are trapped in a mess of filth, foul smell and civic apathy. The entire area housing the Agriculture Development Office (ADO), District Training Office (DTO), District Agriculture Implements Office, Chief Agriculture Office and the Soil and Water Conservation Department is grappling with overflowing sewage, heaps of garbage, stagnant water and waist-high wild grass.

The area surrounding these offices, located in the main PUDA Complex on Ladowali road, presents anything but order and cleanliness. Instead, both officials and visitors are met with blocked sewer lines, rotting waste, a choking stench and the main road so overgrown and cluttered with construction debris that it remains impassable.

“It’s unbearable to even stand outside. The smell is disgusting and the stagnant water has become a breeding ground for insects,” said a visitor, who had come to the Chief Agriculture Office. The main road that links the offices to the DC Office Road is lying unusable for years now due to wild grass taking over the pathway and dumped construction waste obstructing movement.

A government employee posted at the Chief Agriculture Office expressed his frustration. “The entire lane and even the entrance to our office at times is submerged in filthy sewer water. We’ve complained repeatedly, contacted the local MLA, even raised the matter with the Local Bodies Minister — but nothing changes,” he said.

Farmers visiting the offices echoed the dismay, stating that the unsanitary conditions have led to frequent slips and minor accidents. “This is not a recent problem. It has persisted for years. It’s miserable to stand here, let alone work or wait for official business to be done,” one of them shared.

In a striking revelation, visitors said employees of the agriculture office have, in the past, pooled in money from their own pockets to address the drainage issue temporarily. But the problem keeps resurfacing due to the municipality’s inaction and poor upkeep of sewer lines.

Beyond the inconvenience, the health risks are mounting. The stagnant, dirty water has turned into a breeding ground for mosquitoes and insects, raising concerns among nearby residents and regular office-goers.

Meanwhile, Mayor Vaneet Dhir said immediate action would be taken and the officials concerned would be directed to resolve all issues at the earliest possible.

Jalandhar