Protest erupts against Asharodi-Jhajhra highway work over drainage concerns

Dehradun: Residents of Chandrabani and nearby localities, including Choyla and Pattiyonwala, protested on Sunday morning against the ongoing construction of the Asharodi-Jhajhra four-lane highway, alleging that the project has diverted the natural flow of water and worsened flooding risks."The primary issue is the improper placement of drainage outlets, which have diverted water flow towards residential areas like Chandrabani. Every year during monsoon, we face severe waterlogging. Now the new highway has interfered with the natural flow and is diverting even more runoff toward residential areas," said former area councillor Sukhbir Butola.Protesters demanded that the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) install a proper drainage system to prevent floodwaters from entering homes. Construction work was halted temporarily amid the protest.Residents also said the project has obstructed the vital link road connecting Pattiyonwala to Gharat via Bajwala, a primary route that has been used for the past five decades."This road is used daily by thousands of villagers from both Dharampur and Sahaspur Assembly constituencies. Despite repeated representations to local elected representatives, authorities have failed to make alternative arrangements for vehicular and pedestrian movement. How much longer are we expected to suffer?" asked Poonam Bhatnagar, a resident.The project came under the scanner earlier this year as well after an RTI revealed that 6,574 trees were being felled for the highway. Videos showing tree stumps left behind after felling triggered public outrage.Senior NHAI officials, however, said the project has incorporated all necessary drainage outlets and culverts and assured that water diversion issues will be resolved as construction progresses. The project is expected to be completed by mid-2027.