Mohali: Incomplete repairs, open drains spark monsoon fears on Kharar-Landran road

Mohali’s Monsoon Fears: Incomplete Repairs and Open Drains Threaten Kharar-Landran Road

Mohali – As the monsoon season looms, residents and commuters in Mohali are growing anxious about the readiness of the Kharar-Landran road for heavy rainfall. Despite ongoing repairs, the road remains vulnerable due to incomplete work and exposed drainage systems, raising concerns about potential waterlogging and traffic chaos during the upcoming rains.

Monsoon Season Approach

The Kharar-Landran road is a vital artery connecting Mohali with neighboring areas like Chandigarh, Kharar, and Landran, serving as a critical route for thousands of daily commuters. With the first monsoon rains expected in the coming weeks, the road’s current state has sparked fears of recurring flooding and disruptions that could impact both residential and commercial activities across the region.

Past Infrastructure Issues

Over the past two monsoon seasons, the stretch has repeatedly been plagued by waterlogging. Last year, extensive damage from heavy rainfall, combined with ongoing infrastructure projects and poorly maintained drains, left several sections impassable for days. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and sudden water accumulation forced residents to take detours, causing delays and increased travel costs.

Communities along the road have reported that the monsoon season exacerbates existing problems, particularly in areas where the carriageway has been recently dug up for sewerage pipeline work. These exposed drains, which were left uncovered for months, now pose a significant risk as they can easily overflow during downpours. This has led to calls for more urgent interventions to ensure the road remains functional throughout the wet season.

Current Repair Status

Following persistent complaints and public pressure, authorities have taken some steps to address the issues. Recent repair efforts have focused on restoring sections near Shivalik City, which saw heavy damage last year. However, many residents argue that these efforts are only partial and that critical areas remain unattended. “The situation is much better than last year, but the work is still incomplete,” said Rajesh Kumar, a daily commuter between Kharar and Mohali.

“Even a short journey can turn into a nightmare if the drains remain open. We need immediate action to prevent the same problems from recurring,” Kumar added.

The road’s condition has also been affected by the proximity of educational institutions and residential societies. During the previous monsoons, water pooling near these areas caused disruptions to school timings and daily commutes, highlighting the urgency for comprehensive solutions. While some progress has been made, many remain skeptical about the effectiveness of the current measures.

Community Urges Immediate Action

Residents and commuters have united in demanding that the authorities prioritize drainage improvements and complete the remaining repair work before the rains arrive. Amandeep Kaur, who relies on the road for her daily commute, emphasized that “road repairs alone are not enough. If drains remain blocked or open, the entire stretch can face the same problems again.”

“That drain near Gilco Valley needs to be covered before the rains start. Once water collects there, people cannot judge its depth, leading to accidents,” said Harjit Singh, a local resident.

Experts warn that even moderate rainfall could overwhelm the road’s drainage system if the current fixes are not thorough. With the monsoon season approaching, the community is under pressure to ensure that the Kharar-Landran road is prepared for the challenges ahead. Calls and texts to Kharar SDM Gurmeet Singh for a quote remain unanswered, leaving residents to voice their concerns through social media and local forums.

Authorities are now facing mounting pressure to address the unresolved issues. While the recent repairs have alleviated some of the earlier problems, the lingering concerns about open drains and incomplete work underscore the need for a more comprehensive approach. As the monsoon season approaches, the fate of this critical route will depend on whether the necessary measures are taken in time to prevent a repeat of last year’s chaos.