As a student who has been living near Lovely Professional University (LPU) for the past three years, one thing that has remained unchanged is the poor condition of the roads and the miserable sewage system around the Law Gate and Maheru area. Every monsoon, the situation becomes worse — just after one spell of rain, the roads turn into mini ponds, making it difficult for pedestrians, students, and even vehicles to pass.
When I went on ground zero to understand the situation, I spoke to several local residents and shopkeepers. To my surprise, they told me this problem is not new — it has been here for many years. “It’s not just three years, beta, it’s been like this since forever,” said one elderly shopkeeper, shaking his head in frustration.
I asked them why no action was being taken and who is responsible for this negligence. The most common answer I got was: “There’s no government work being done here.” People also mentioned that because the area is mainly occupied by students, there are very few local voters. As a result, the authorities often ignore it.
But should that be a reason to overlook such a serious civic issue? Thousands of students and locals use this road daily. It’s one of the main connecting routes, yet filled with potholes and poor drainage. During rains, waterlogging not only damages vehicles but also becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes, posing health risks.
As journalism students, we are taught that journalism is about giving voice to the voiceless — and this is one such issue that deserves attention. Civic neglect shouldn’t be normalized just because the majority here are students who don’t vote locally. Clean roads, proper drainage, and basic infrastructure are not luxuries — they are fundamental civic rights.
It’s time the concerned authorities take note and act. The Law Gate–Maheŕu stretch is not just a student area; it’s a lifeline for thousands. The problem may have been ignored for years, but raising our voices collectively might finally bring the change we’ve all been waiting for.
