Rafts only way out of waterlogged roads in Akota village

Vadodara: The Akota village in the city witnessed extensive water-logging on Monday and residents had to press rafts into action to commute there. Both residents of some pockets in the area as well as goods had to be moved on these rafts in the locality.

The area has been facing extensive water-logging ever since work was completed on the road connecting Akota-Dandiabazaar. It is said that the ambitious project blocked the passage of rain water leading to the situation in the village. While the village is now in the heart of the city it is still referred to as ‘Akota Gam’ as it was once a village.

“The outlet made under the bridge on the Akota-Dandiabazaar Road is not sufficient to drain out water from the area. This leads to water-logging. The road connecting the Akota village to the main road is completely submerged under water,” said Imtiaz Patel, a former corporator from the area.

Due to the road beng submerged under water, people have to take a long detour and come on the road on the opposite side of the Gateway Hotel. To avoid the long route, they use rafts to cross the waterlogged street. “There is no other way out of the locality. Necessary items like vegetables are also carried on these rafts that were also used to ferry school children today,” Patel said.

In heavy rains, even the alternative route is waterlogged and the rafts made from empty barrels and tin sheets are the only option to move out of the area that becomes like an island. Patel claimed that he has raised the issue with the civic body on several occasions, but no solution has been found yet.