Resentment is brewing among the residents in the pilgrim city of Puri over the drain water overflowing at Gadanti Square, located on the western side of Lord Jagannath Temple.
Investigation revealed that the drain water coming from Baseli Sahi and Markandeswar Sahi is presently flooding Gadanti Square as there is no outlet for the drain water discharge.
According to sources, the road on which the drain water is overflowing is used by the local people to go to the temple through the Western gate. Due to the stagnant water, people are experiencing problems to reach the temple. Besides, the stagnant water is emanating a stench, giving a nightmarish experience to the local residents and tourists, alleged locals.
“People going to the temple are facing problems because of the drain water overflowing on the road. The administration should take steps to address the issue,” rued a local resident.
Meanwhile, the civic body authorities have pulled their socks up to put an end to the people’s sufferings.
“At Gadanti Square, some people are selling vegetables. The garbage generated from their shops may have obstructed the drain due to which the water is flowing on the road. If this is the case, I will personally visit the spot. Our teams will be deployed on the spot. As you know construction works are underway under the Heritage Project. Drains are being constructed around the temple for finding an alternative solution for the easy flow of water. We will remove the blockage if any in the drain at Gadanti Square. The problem will soon be addressed,” said executive officer, Puri Municipality, Saroj Kumar Swain.
(Reported by Pradeep Mohanty, OTV)