A key underpass at Islampur on Gurugram’s busy Sohna Road has turned into an unofficial dumping ground, creating serious inconvenience for commuters and nearby residents. What was designed to ease local traffic movement has instead become a foul-smelling stretch cluttered with piles of household waste, stray animals, and dangerously narrowed roads.
Underpass Meant for Relief Now a Nuisance
The low-height vehicular underpass was built to help vehicles cross the corridor safely. However, repeated dumping of garbage near its entry and exit points has rendered the route difficult to navigate. Large heaps of rubbish now line both sides of the stretch, forcing vehicles into a much narrower passage.
Commuters say the situation worsens during peak hours, when vehicles struggle to pass through the restricted lane. In several instances, garbage has spilled onto the motorable portion of the road, creating a potential safety hazard.
Stray Animals Add to the Mess
The waste piles have also attracted stray cattle and dogs, which rummage through the garbage and scatter it further across the road. This not only intensifies the stench but also increases the risk of accidents, especially at night when visibility is low.
Residents complain that the problem has persisted for a long time with little visible enforcement to stop violators from dumping waste.
Residents Demand Strict Action
Local residents and RWAs have called for immediate clearance of garbage and strict penalties against offenders.
“The underpass has become an unauthorised dumping site. There is no monitoring. Without challans, dumping will continue,” said a resident of Sector 30.
Community representatives also warned that the shrinking width of the adjoining service road could lead to traffic snarls and emergency access issues if not addressed quickly.
Civic Body Promises Cleanup
Municipal officials acknowledged the issue and termed the dumping illegal. Authorities have assured that the site will be cleared and monitoring strengthened to prevent further violations.
Still, residents remain skeptical, pointing out that temporary clean-ups in the past have not prevented garbage from returning within days.
A Larger Urban Challenge
The situation highlights broader concerns about waste management, enforcement gaps, and civic discipline in rapidly growing urban areas. With Sohna Road being one of Gurugram’s busiest corridors, sustained action will be crucial to restore safe and hygienic commuting conditions.
If corrective measures are implemented effectively, the underpass could once again serve its intended purpose — easing traffic rather than obstructing it.
