Garbage, poor lighting, clogged drains plague Dharampur mandi | Dehradun News
Dehradun: A range of civic issues came to light during a TOI visit to Dharampur mandi, affecting both traders and shoppers. Garbage dumping, poor sanitation, lack of streetlights and clogged drains were among the main concerns on the ground.Heaps of waste were seen dumped in open areas, spilling onto the main market road and near vending spots. “Waste lying around has made the area unhygienic and difficult to navigate. It also attracts stray animals and insects,” said Phool Chand, a vegetable vendor.
A heap of garbage at Dharampur mandi / Sukanta Mukherjee
Shoppers also pointed to waterlogging during the rains. “Drains in the area are clogged, preventing the proper flow of wastewater. As a result, dirty water collects on the road,” said Priyajan Kala, a resident.The use of single-use plastic continues despite penalties. Vendors said they are aware of the restrictions but find it difficult to stop due to customer demand. “We have been fined several times, but customers still ask for plastic bags. Ideally, they should bring their own bags,” said Chand.
Poor road condition after construction at Dharampur area/ Sukanta Mukherjee
Poor lighting is another concern. “There are no streetlights in parts of the mandi. It becomes difficult to operate at night. Visibility is poor and it is not safe,” said Naushad Qureshi, a fruit vendor.Shikhar, a resident of Ekta Enclave, said the situation has remained unchanged for a long time, but added that residents also share responsibility. “Without strict enforcement and public participation, the problem is unlikely to be resolved. We should bring our own biodegradable bags and avoid parking vehicles in a way that disrupts traffic,” he said.Councillor Amit Bhandari said, “Streetlights have been removed as new poles are being installed. They will be functional again soon.”Sanitation inspector Mahipal Singh said a garbage collection van visits the market daily. “Fogging is also being carried out six days a week to prevent mosquito breeding,” he said.
Drains are clogged around the mandi, due to which water stagnates after rainfall / Sukanta Mukherjee
