Negligence leaves Yazman Road in filth

A major thoroughfare in Bahawalpur has turned into a virtual sewage drain, causing distress among residents and raising questions about the integrity of a multi-million rupee public project.

Yazman Road, particularly the stretch in front of Islami Colony, has become inundated with stagnant sewage water due to the failure of a recently installed drainage system.

The resulting foul stench and unsanitary conditions have alarmed residents, who fear a potential outbreak of waterborne diseases.

According to government sources, the area faced similar sewerage issues nearly 18 months ago.

To address the problem, authorities approved a high-cost development scheme that included the laying of new sewerage pipelines and the reconstruction of the road. However, the effort appears to have been in vain.

Sub-engineer Mudassar, formerly with the Tehsil Municipal Administration (TMA) and now posted in the District Council, disclosed that the project was awarded to Madina Construction Company, reportedly owned by Bilal Randhawa, an SDO posted in the Public Health Department.

"The project was flawed from the start," said Mudassar. "Even after its completion, sewage could not flow properly through the installed pipes. The only reason the system worked temporarily was due to extensive cleaning at the time."

He further claimed that little to no attention was paid to critical technical details during the construction process, leading to a complete collapse of the system once again.

Residents of Islami Colony and nearby neighborhoods have voiced frustration at the inaction of local authorities.

"Senior government officers travel this route daily, yet they ignore the open drain right under their noses," said one local resident.

Despite repeated complaints, no action has been taken against either the contractor or the public health officials responsible for the failed project.

Locals have appealed to the authorities to intervene immediately. They are demanding not only the urgent repair of the road and drainage system but also strict legal action against the officials and contractors responsible for the substandard work.

"The entire area is suffering because of their negligence. We need accountability, not just broken promises," a resident added.