Bumpy roads irk Pindi Cantt residents

Damaged thoroughfares pose accident risks, cause snarl-ups

RAWALPINDI:

Given the indifferent and lethargic attitude of the officials of Rawalpindi Cantonment Board (RCB), it has become increasingly difficult for the residents of the densely populated areas of the garrison city to swiftly commute to work and other places as most of its thoroughfares are in a state of disrepair. These decrepit roads not only cause frequent road accidents but are also a major reason for massive traffic disruptions, making the lives of those residing in these areas miserable.

According to sources, due to the inattentiveness of the RCB officials, adequate funds and resources have not been allocated for the repair and reconstruction of Range Road, Misrial Road and Chauhar Bazaar.

Locals say owing to the use of substandard material, the patchwork which was carried out on these roads of late has proved to be futile and within a few weeks, the roads were in a worse condition than before.

They said most of these roads, which are situated in densely populated areas, have been destroyed

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Expressing regrets, citizens told The Express Tribune that the roads which were in good condition, including Peshawar Road and Mall Road, were needlessly torn down and re-carpeted, ignoring the dilapidated roads in the significant Cantt areas.

Additionally, citizens said that the drainage system alongside the Range Road and Misriyal Road was also in poor condition, so much so that in certain areas, the water had risen to the surface, damaging the roads.

“This results in difficulties for the vehicular traffic as well as the passers-by,” they said. “Due to the lack of a proper drainage system and accumulation of water in the craters of the damaged roads, the citizens took it upon themselves to dig a wide channel for drainage purposes. However, the presence of stagnant water in this open channel has become a breeding ground for mosquitoes spreading various ailments such as dengue and constantly, giving off an unpleasant smell,” they added. “It is also a cause for traffic disruption which leads to road congestion and increases the chance of accidents.”

Published in The Express Tribune, December 19^th, 2023.