Residents in Jaipur’s Walled City struggle with filth, flood risk

Jaipur: While Jaipur’s Walled City continues to attract tourists for its historic architecture and Unesco World Heritage status, residents of Bas Badanpura say they are forced to live with foul odour, garbage accumulation and the persistent threat of flooding from the Nagtalai Nala.

The drain originates in the foothills of Amagarh and passes through Galta Gate, Idgah, Bas Badanpura and Ramgarh Mod before reaching Jal Mahal. For people living along its banks, however, it has become a source of daily hardship rather than a civic utility.

Residents allege that years of inadequate maintenance have worsened conditions. Mohammad Aslam, who lives in the area, said the approaching monsoon has heightened fears of the drain overflowing into homes.

“With the monsoon approaching, our biggest worry is whether we will be able to protect our homes from the overflowing drain. The stagnant sewage water creates an unbearable stench and health problems. You will find either a child or an elderly person unwell in almost every household here. Many of us cover our faces before stepping outside,” he said.

Another resident, Akhtar Khan, said repeated complaints to authorities have failed to bring lasting relief. “Leaders come to us seeking votes, but when it comes to solving problems, neither elected representatives nor officials are seen. Nobody seems interested in addressing the condition of the drain,” he said.

Nargis, a resident living near the nala, said overflowing sewage has weakened the area’s infrastructure. “Repeated overflowing has weakened the ground beneath the road. From above, the road may appear normal, but underneath there is stagnant sewage and decay. The soil is sinking, walls are weakening and there is always a fear that houses could be damaged,” she said.

Attempts to contact Hawa Mahal-Amer zone deputy commissioner Seema Choudhary for comment were unsuccessful.

For residents, the Nagtalai Nala remains a stark reminder that basic civic issues continue to persist behind Jaipur’s celebrated heritage facade.