Mohali: A nearly 500-metre-long stretch of roadside garbage in Kharar has triggered fears of a public health crisis, with residents alleging that rotting waste, waterlogged potholes and poor sanitation have turned the area into a breeding ground for mosquitoes and a danger zone for commuters during the monsoon.Locals said heaps of household waste, plastic and construction debris have remained uncleared for days, emitting a foul stench and attracting stray animals, flies and mosquitoes. The situation has been worsened by potholes filled with garbage and rainwater, making them difficult to spot and increasing the risk of accidents.Residents warned that unless immediate steps are taken, the area could witness an outbreak of vector-borne diseases. They said motorists are often forced to navigate through heaps of waste, while rainwater-covered potholes have turned the stretch into a virtual death trap, especially at night.Amrik Singh Happy, a resident of Mundi Kharar, alleged that repeated complaints to the civic authorities had gone unheeded. He said a car tyre got stuck in a garbage-covered pothole a day ago, narrowly averting a major mishap.Other residents echoed similar concerns, saying children and the elderly were the worst affected by the deteriorating sanitation conditions. They urged the authorities to clear the waste, repair the road and disinfect the area before the situation worsens.Civic officials attributed the problem to the ongoing strike by sanitation workers, saying garbage collection has been severely affected in several parts of Kharar. They maintained that efforts were underway to restore services and clear the accumulated waste once the situation normalises.Residents have demanded an immediate sanitation drive and warned of protests if the civic authorities fail to act promptly.
