Protest Erupts Over Waterlogging Issues in Sonepat Underpass

Residents in Sonepat, India, are voicing their frustrations over severe waterlogging at an underpass, leading to significant crop loss affecting approximately 200 acres. On Sunday, October 15, 2023, Sanjay Badwasnia, a member of the Zila Parishad, alongside Jagmal, a representative from Hullaheri village, staged a protest to highlight what they described as “official apathy” regarding the ongoing issues.

The protest took an unusual turn as the demonstrators entered the underpass filled with around 15 feet of stagnant water, equipped with swimming tubes. Their aim was to draw attention to what they perceive as the negligence of the district administration in addressing urgent local concerns. Badwasnia criticized the administration for failing to take tangible steps to alleviate the problems faced by farmers, stating that many crops are being damaged due to inadequate drainage maintenance.

“Concrete action is necessary to resolve these farmers’ problems,” Badwasnia asserted. He emphasized that the district administration has largely ignored these critical issues, which have resulted in significant agricultural losses. The lack of proper drainage has also led to dangerous conditions at the underpass, with reports of vehicles becoming stranded and several accidents occurring.

The protesters are calling for immediate action, including proper cleaning of the drainage system to prevent future waterlogging. They are also demanding compensation for the farmers affected by crop loss. “The cleaning of the drain has not been done properly, which has led to the submergence of crops,” Badwasnia explained, adding that the ongoing situation poses a risk to both agriculture and public safety.

This protest underscores growing frustrations among local farmers who feel their concerns are not being adequately addressed by officials. With many livelihoods at stake, the demand for accountability and effective action from the district administration continues to gain momentum in Sonepat.