Panchkula Residents Suffer as Annual Flooding Increases Amid Poor Planning and Drainage Woes

Heavy rainfall brought life to a standstill in Panchkula's Sector 19, a low-lying area, with water flooding roads, homes, parks, and a railway underpass. Residents blame clogged drains and poor planning for the annual flooding, which they say worsened after the railway underpass was built. The underpass, which was opened without proper drainage infrastructure, has become a major point of contention, with locals claiming that the problem escalated after its construction. Despite clear health risks, there were no warning signs or supervision at the park, and residents have expressed concerns about the stagnant water emitting a foul smell and raising health concerns in the neighbourhood.

Key Takeaways:

• Residents of Sector 19 in Panchkula have been facing annual flooding issues due to poor planning and clogged drains.
• The railway underpass, which was opened without proper drainage infrastructure, has worsened the problem, with even brief spells of rain causing flooding.
• Residents have complained that they are not provided with emergency food, shelter, or relief material in the event of flooding.
• Fruit and vegetable vendors have suffered due to water collecting in the area, affecting their business.
• Despite concerns raised by the Citizens' Welfare Association, officials appear to have gone unheeded.
• Residents have welcomed the clean-up efforts by the Municipal Corporation but have demanded a permanent solution.
• Residents claim that the flooding has caused damage to household materials, beds, and other belongings.

Statistics:

• The flooding has become an annual crisis, with residents saying that even a small rain is enough to flood the underpass.
• The railway underpass was built without proper drainage infrastructure, exacerbating the problem.
• The stagnant water emitted a foul smell, raising health concerns in the neighborhood.
• Fruit and vegetable vendors have seen their business affected due to water collecting in the area.
• The Citizens' Welfare Association had raised concerns about the likelihood of flooding on June 29.

Sources:

• IE Online Media Services Pvt. Ltd., distributed by Contify.com (2025)