Poor upkeep of vacant land raises concerns over sanitation in Mohali

Residents of Sector 69, Mohali, have complained that a portion of vacant land, which is owned by the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA), in Ward No. 29 has become a source of nuisance to them.

They allege that stagnant water, garbage and growth of wild grass and vegitation has led to unhygienic conditions amid the monsoon. “We are facing problems in our day-to-day lives as this vacant land has become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, snakes and insects. Children are forced to remain indoors, while the elderly can no longer take a walk in the early morning and evening as snakes and insects lurk in nook and cranny,” one of the residents said.

Ward No. 29 councillor Kuldeep Kaur Dhanoa said, “A 28.3 acre land of GMADA was lying vacant here for the past 30 years. The Greater Mohali Area Development Authority is neither auctioning it nor maintaining it properly. The authority has failed to ensure the proper upkeep of old areas.”

Another area resident noted that it had become difficult for the residents here as garbage is scattered in the open near the school’s periphery.