Residents of Paprola town in Kangra district are facing inconvenience due to roads dug up for the execution of a Rs 50 crore sewerage project by contractors engaged by the Baijnath-Paprola Municipal Council. Several roads and lanes were dug up for laying sewerage pipelines and the construction of chambers. Though the sewerage work has been completed in many areas, the roads have not been repaired. With the onset of the monsoon season, the damaged road stretches have become muddy and slushy, making the movement of pedestrians, schoolchildren and motorists difficult.

Local residents say that roads, drains, tiles and pavements were excavated months ago but the contractors had not repaired them. The situation worsened following recent rainfall, as stagnant water and muddy road stretches in several wards became safety hazards.

A road in Ward No. 8, which was dug up nine months ago, is still in a dilapidated condition. Similar conditions prevail in Ward No. 10, where roads have been badly damaged due to the work to lay pipes. Roads leading to senior secondary schools and the Paprola market have also become difficult to travel on.

Meanwhile, local MLA Kishori Lal said that the authorities concerned have been directed to ensure immediate restoration of all damaged roads. He assured the residents that no compromise would be made with the quality of the sewerage project and road repair. Municipal Council Executive Officer Rajeev Verma, who is holding additional charge, said that the Jal Shakti Department had been asked to repair all roads immediately after the completion of the sewerage work.

Former councillor Anita Sood said that the contractors be directed to repair all roads immediately where the work had been completed. She added that public convenience should not be ignored during the execution of development projects.