STATE TIMES NEWS JAMMU: Expressing grave concern and anguish over administrative inertia, especially with regard to civic amenities and utility services, Prominent Social Activist and National Conference leader Somraj Taroch today said that lane numbers 1 to 6 of Ward Number 16 in New Plot area of the Jammu City reflects the apathy of the line departments as a result of which the residents are facing the brunt. “Lack of coordination between various agencies have led to vandalisation of lanes in a big way, causing innumerable hardships to commuters with riches dotting all over”, Taroch said in a statement, adding that the situation worsens during nights during unscheduled and frequent power cuts. Somraj Taroch questioned the efficiency and efficacy of the Jammu Municipal Corporation, saying lack of monitoring has impacted the civic amenities hugely. The digging of lanes for repairing or renovating water supply takes toll of upgraded pathways as there is no subsequent treatment to the damaged sections. The minor encroachments be way of raising ramps and stairs have already condensed thin lanes. At several stretches two and three wheelers hardly manage to pass. Same us true about health and hygiene fronts which appears to be nobody’s priority, he said, adding that this represents the lackadaisical approach of the elected representative of the ward. Taroch the dejected residents have lost the hope as they have nowhere to go to seek the redressal. The condition of the Ward exposes the tall claims of the Swatch Bharat Abhiyan, as it is reflective of the callousness of those designated to put the wheels of development in motion, the NC leader said. He also referred to dysfunctional utility services, especially power and drinking water, saying the supplies being erratic and unscheduled are testing the patience of consumers during the ongoing summer months. They are highly apprehensive about things to happen during ensuing monsoon when the area gets chocked on all fronts. The concerned departments have made no advance plans to meet the challenging situations, he added. Taroch sought immediate course correction in the utility service so that the residents are no more forced to suffer, he said, adding this is the least the people expect from the administration.
