Jalandhar Deputy Commissioner Takes Firm Action Against Chaotic Road Excavations
In a decisive move to curb the rampant and unplanned digging of roads throughout Jalandhar, Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Aggarwal has issued stringent directives to all government departments, municipal bodies, utilities, and private agencies. The aim is to streamline excavation activities and mitigate the significant inconvenience caused to the public.
Addressing the Root Causes of Frequent Road Disruptions
Through an official order, the DC highlighted that numerous agencies repeatedly excavate roads to install underground pipelines, cables, and other utilities without adequate planning or verification of existing infrastructure. He emphasized that such haphazard practices result in multiple adverse outcomes:
- Damage to newly constructed or recently repaired road surfaces
- Persistent traffic disruptions and congestion across the city
- Wastage of valuable public resources and taxpayer funds
- Significant inconvenience and frustration for local residents
Aggarwal pointed out specific instances where roads were dug up immediately after being rebuilt, and uncoordinated works led to collateral damage to essential services like water supply lines and sewerage systems.
New Mandatory Procedures for All Excavation Works
To tackle these issues systematically, the Deputy Commissioner has introduced compulsory measures for all executing agencies:
- Conduct a detailed survey of the existing pipeline, sewerage, and utility network before initiating any excavation project.
- Submit a certificate in advance from the concerned department verifying the completion of this survey.
- Obtain prior written permission from the competent authority, regardless of whether the road is under government, Municipal Corporation, PWD, or any other jurisdiction.
- Ensure coordination with all relevant departments to prevent conflicts and overlapping works.
Furthermore, Aggarwal clarified that the responsibility for preventing damage to existing infrastructure will lie entirely with the executing agency. He warned that any officer or authorized representative who undertakes work without adhering to these prescribed procedures will be held personally accountable for their actions.
This initiative reflects a broader effort to enhance urban governance and public service delivery in Jalandhar, ensuring that development works proceed smoothly without compromising the quality of life for its citizens.
