Kharar Society Drowning in Sewage: Residents Cry for Help

Residents of Aura Avenue society, near Kharar's Ludhiana Road Toll Plaza, are facing a severe sewage overflow problem. For several months, untreated sewage has been spilling onto roads and streets, even reaching the entrances of their homes. The situation has escalated to the point where the society's roads resemble open drains, and contaminated water has infiltrated the rainwater harvesting system, posing a significant risk of groundwater contamination.

The foul smell has polluted the local environment, fueling fears of potential water-borne disease outbreaks. Residents report daily struggles walking through sewage, with children and the elderly being particularly affected. Some residents have been forced to move to rented accommodations due to the unbearable living conditions and the constant threat of illness.

The Aura Avenue Residents Welfare Association has submitted multiple written complaints to various officials, including the Kharar Municipal Council Executive Officer, the Sub-Divisional Officer, the local MLA, and the Punjab Health Minister's office, but no effective action has been taken. Residents allege the builder failed to provide a permanent sewage treatment and disposal system, while the Municipal Council has not yet laid the main sewer line in the area.

Builders claim they deposited External Development Charges about a year ago for sewer line connection, but the file is pending. They state a sewerage line will be laid and connected to a treatment plant soon, resolving the issue. However, municipal officials stated the responsibility for the non-functional Sewage Treatment Plant lies with the builder or the RWA. The Deputy Commissioner has assured an investigation and legal action against the party found at fault.