BJP Chief Spokesperson and Sundernagar MLA Rakesh Jamwal strongly raised the issue of the deteriorating and overloaded sewerage system in Sundernagar during the Himachal Pradesh Assembly session, launching a sharp attack on the Congress-led state government.
Jamwal alleged that government negligence and administrative inaction have pushed Sundernagar city toward a serious public health crisis. He stated that the sewerage project for the town received administrative and financial approval in 1992 during the government led by former Chief Minister Shanta Kumar. The project was designed based on the 1981 census with a projected operational capacity until 2025.
However, he claimed that the system has already collapsed well before its intended design period due to rapid urbanization and increasing population pressure.
According to Jamwal, the establishment of institutions such as engineering colleges, polytechnic institutes, degree and dental colleges, hospitals, and commercial establishments has significantly increased both permanent and floating populations in the city. Despite this growth, no major steps were taken to upgrade the sewerage infrastructure.
He said the system is currently operating far beyond its designed capacity, resulting in frequent overflows, pipeline blockages, and sewage flowing into open drains. The situation worsens during mornings and monsoon seasons, causing foul smell, unhygienic conditions, and heightened risk of disease outbreaks.
The BJP MLA further stated that during the previous BJP government, nearly 70 percent of Sundernagar was connected to the sewerage network, while ₹19.36 crore had been sanctioned to cover the remaining 30 percent areas. However, he alleged that strengthening and expansion of the core infrastructure were neglected, worsening the problem.
Jamwal also pointed out that under Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0, the Central Government approved ₹3.85 crore for sewerage facilities in the urban areas of Ropa and Bhaichna, but slow implementation has prevented residents from receiving full benefits.
He added that the nearly 50-year-old sewerage system operated by BBMB has also become dilapidated, with sewage openly flowing in areas such as Changar, Old Market, and Chougan, posing serious risks to public health.
Demanding accountability, Jamwal asked the government to clarify whether it has any concrete plan for augmentation and modernization of the sewerage system and to disclose timelines and budget allocations.
He urged the preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) to be sent to the Central Government and called for the installation of a new Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) along with strengthening existing infrastructure.
Appealing for immediate intervention by the Chief Minister, Jamwal warned that if prompt action is not taken, the BJP would launch a mass public movement over the issue.
