Rohtak: Heavy monsoon rain caused severe waterlogging across Rohtak on Saturday, disrupting traffic and business activity and raising concerns among residents, traders and shopkeepers.
The city recorded more than 118 mm of rainfall, leaving several roads, markets and low-lying areas submerged for hours. Water also entered several shops, forcing traders to shut their establishments.
Waterlogging disrupts city life
The heavy rain exposed concerns over the city’s drainage and flood-control arrangements. Residents in several areas struggled to move through waterlogged roads, while commuters faced difficulties during the rain.
An eight-year-old boy died after drowning in a water-filled plot in Rajeev Nagar, highlighting the risks posed by stagnant and accumulated rainwater.
The district administration has kept the District Flood, Drought and Control Room operational at the Mini Secretariat. Officials have asked residents to report flooding, waterlogging, heavy rainfall and other emergencies to the control room.
Authorities said the control room will function round the clock. Concerned departments have also received instructions to respond promptly to complaints.
Administration issues safety directions
ADC Narendra Kumar appealed to residents to avoid entering waterlogged areas unnecessarily during heavy rain. He also urged people to immediately inform the administration about emergencies and severe waterlogging.
The Health Department has received directions to take preventive measures against diseases linked to stagnant water. Officials will focus on sanitation, safe drinking water, surveillance and anti-larval activities.
The administration has also stressed the need to maintain adequate supplies of medicines, testing facilities and essential healthcare staff during the monsoon.
Traders demand stronger action
Gulshan Dang, state president of the Rashtriya Jan Udyog Vyapar Sangathan, criticised the administration over the situation. He said the first major spell of monsoon rain had raised fresh concerns among traders and residents.
According to Dang, water entered several shops and forced businesses to remain closed. He called for effective measures to prevent repeated waterlogging during the monsoon season.
Congress MLA Bharat Bhushan Batra has also criticised the district administration over the situation. He demanded accountability from officials responsible for the failure to drain rainwater promptly.
The latest waterlogging has renewed calls for better drainage infrastructure and stronger flood-prevention measures in Rohtak before further spells of heavy monsoon rain.
