Serious concerns have been raised over deteriorating sanitation and civic infrastructure in Baijnath-Paprola following its upgradation from a Nagar Panchayat to a Municipal Council. Former nominated councillor Sanjay Soni has alleged that the town’s cleanliness and maintenance systems have virtually collapsed, causing widespread inconvenience to residents across several wards.
Soni claimed that drains in many parts of the town are choked with silt and garbage, while regular cleaning of streets and public spaces is not being carried out. He warned that unless immediate measures are taken before the onset of the monsoon, blocked drains could result in waterlogging and flood-like situations in low-lying areas.
Expressing concern over the deteriorating condition of civic infrastructure, Soni pointed to the poor state of roads, particularly the Utarla road. He said continued neglect could turn stretches of the road into drainage channels during heavy rains, creating hardships for commuters and local residents.
Questioning the Municipal Council’s waste management practices, Soni alleged that garbage is being dumped at multiple locations and, in some cases, burnt in the open, leading to environmental pollution and public inconvenience. He further claimed that stray animals often scatter waste from dumping sites, aggravating unhygienic conditions in the town.
The former councillor also highlighted problems arising from ongoing sewerage works. According to him, roads and lanes in several wards have been dug up for laying sewer lines, making movement difficult for both pedestrians and motorists. He said the situation is particularly severe in Wards 7 and 8, where residents are facing significant inconvenience.
Urging the Municipal Council administration and the Jal Shakti Department to act promptly, Soni called for a comprehensive cleanliness drive, immediate desilting of drains, scientific waste disposal, and restoration of damaged roads before the rainy season begins. He stressed that development works should be executed in a planned manner and roads restored without delay after completion of sewerage projects.
Soni also underlined the responsibility of elected representatives in the Municipal Council to ensure accountability and address civic grievances effectively. Residents, meanwhile, have demanded swift intervention from the authorities to prevent further deterioration of sanitation and infrastructure in the town ahead of the monsoon.
