Residents of Lohagarh and three other villages under Mirik block are still facing difficult times ever since a connecting diversion got washed away by torrential rainfall a couple of days ago. They are taking huge risks as they are compelled to cross the swollen river while the authorities are yet to come up with a solution to resolve the matter.
Engineers from the Kurseong Engineering Department have asked local contractors to construct another diversion at a cost of Rs 8 lakh as a temporary solution, but work has not started yet.
Meanwhile, a JCV of the tea garden is being used to clear debris to make way for heavy vehicles that carry essential goods to the factories.
Gopal Mahato, a truck driver from Siliguri who carries coal for the garden, said, "Today I took a big risk and crossed the river, but while returning I could not make it as the river was flowing very fast and the water level had risen high due to heavy rainfall in the hills."
Local contractors said the GTA has given its clearance for the construction of a temporary diversion, but heavy rainfall has not let work to start.
Avisekh Dhamala Manjha and a class VII student of Potong High School, said, "This is not the only time we are facing problems, but during every monsoon season since the last four years.
We have to cross the river risking our very lives as there is no other alternative to reach our school."
Priya Tamang of class IX, who studies in the same school, said, "When we go to school the water level is low and we can cross the river easily. But while returning home the water level goes up and it gets really difficult to cross the river."
[Via: EOIC]
No comments:
Post a Comment