Ranchi Ward 18 Residents Grapple with Safety and Civic Woes
In Ranchi's ward number 18, a pressing concern has emerged as public spaces transform into hangout zones for substance abusers after sunset. Local residents have voiced their alarm over the growing presence of these groups in open areas, which has rendered the environment unsafe for families, women, and elderly individuals to venture outside their homes. The situation has sparked demands for immediate action from aspiring councillor candidates, who are being urged to prioritize these critical issues in their campaigns.
Recreational Ponds Turned into Unsafe Zones
The ward features two ponds originally intended as recreational spots for the community. However, these areas have become largely inaccessible, especially after dark, due to the occupation by substance abusers. Vishwas Kumar, a resident of Line Tank Road, expressed his frustration, stating, "These ponds could have been ideal spaces for evening and leisure walks, but anti-social activities have completely ruined the atmosphere. Every day, after dark, a group of youths sit around the ponds and consume intoxicants there." This has led to a significant decline in public usage, with many now hesitant to visit these locations.
Residents Call for Enhanced Security Measures
To combat the safety concerns, residents are advocating for several measures:
- Increased police patrolling in the area to deter illegal activities.
- Proper lighting installation around the ponds to improve visibility and security.
- Urgent attention to basic infrastructure problems that exacerbate the situation.
Locals are hopeful that the next elected representatives will take concrete steps to reclaim these public spaces and enhance the overall living conditions in the ward.
Broader Civic Issues Compound the Problem
Beyond safety, residents are facing multiple civic challenges that further strain daily life. Key issues include:
- Dilapidated Roads: The poor condition of roads, particularly on SN Yadav Road, makes commuting difficult. Rajeev Ranjan, a resident, highlighted the impact on healthcare access, saying, "One of the best hospitals for orthopaedic treatment in Ranchi, Ram Pyari Hospital, is located on this road. But the road leading to the hospital is filled with craters and potholes, making vehicular movement tough. Patients endure a rough ride that can worsen their condition."
- Erratic Water Supply: Drinking water availability is inconsistent, with supply sometimes failing for up to a week. Asha Kumari, a local, noted, "Residents must rely on water purchased from private firms, and even when supplied, the water is often muddy and unfit for drinking."
- Infrastructure Hazards: Dangling overhead electric wires pose constant threats, while open drains and a waste transfer unit on Line Tank Road add to the ward's problems, as pointed out by aspiring councillor candidate Sablu Munda.
Looking Ahead: A Call for Comprehensive Solutions
The residents of ward number 18 in Ranchi are united in their demand for a multifaceted approach to address these intertwined issues. They emphasize that reclaiming public spaces from substance abusers must go hand-in-hand with improvements in infrastructure, such as road repairs and reliable water supply. By highlighting these concerns, they aim to ensure that future leaders take decisive action to restore safety and livability to their community.
