Dwarka Residents Hope for Change Ahead of February Elections Amid Infrastructure Challenges
Dwarka, the political climate is palpable as residents, young and old, gather at local paan and tea stalls to discuss their hopes and frustrations. The upcoming February 5 elections have intensified these conversations, with many citizens hoping for tangible improvements in their local infrastructure. The region, which includes a diverse array of communities such as Pandits, Rajputs, and Muslims, faces a unique set of challenges and issues that are on the minds of voters as they prepare to cast their ballots.
One of the most pressing concerns for residents in areas such as Dabri Extension, Dashrathpuri, and Manglapuri is the poor state of roads. Many internal roads remain in a dilapidated state, with potholes and uneven surfaces causing major safety hazards, particularly for two-wheeler riders. Asim, a local tailor, shares his frustration, saying, “The potholes are a serious safety risk. Something needs to be done about the roads and sanitation.” Similarly, issues with drainage continue to plague these areas, making the situation even worse during the monsoon months.
Water scarcity is another challenge that remains high on the agenda. In densely populated areas like Nasirpur, residents complain about erratic water supply and low-quality water. “We face water cuts for days at a stretch. And when the water does come, it’s dirty,” says Alok Sharma, a local resident. This widespread dissatisfaction with the water situation stands in contrast to the improvement claims of local officials. However, some residents, particularly those in other parts of Dwarka, have noticed improvements. Vinay Mishra, the incumbent AAP MLA, states, “There is no water crisis anymore. The supply is more reliable, and the quality has also improved. If anyone faces issues, they can approach me, and we will have it resolved.” This optimistic tone contrasts with the more sceptical outlook of others in the region.
On a brighter note, residents are generally happier with the situation regarding electricity. Engineer Nitish Rajput points out, “There were frequent power cuts earlier, but things have improved a lot now. We don’t even need inverters anymore. The free power scheme introduced by AAP has been a huge relief for many families.” With elections drawing near, local governance remains a significant point of focus. The broader context of the election has shaped discussions about accountability and infrastructure development. Despite visible improvements in areas such as electricity and water supply, many argue that the true test lies in the resolution of more serious infrastructure issues, such as roads, sanitation, and safety.
Safety concerns have not been alleviated, particularly in areas like Sagarpur, once notorious for drug-related issues. While there have been noticeable reductions in substance abuse, petty crimes such as snatchings remain a major issue. Rajesh Kumar, a long-time resident, explains, “There’s still a lot of crime, especially snatching. We need more surveillance and streetlights for safety.” Furthermore, construction work in the area has added to traffic woes. “The construction seems endless, and traffic has become a nightmare, especially in places like Dashrathpuri where the road network is already congested,” says Sunil Yadav, a resident of Dabri village. With roads in disrepair and traffic jams becoming a daily occurrence, commuting has become an uphill task for many.
With the February elections fast approaching, the residents of Dwarka are hoping for changes that will address their day-to-day concerns. While there are signs of progress, such as improvements in electricity supply and some water issues being resolved, the road network and safety concerns remain significant obstacles. The upcoming election is not just about political promises; it is about delivering the basic infrastructure and services that people depend on daily. The residents’ hopes rest on the willingness of the government to address these issues urgently. They want more focus on infrastructure repair, water supply, drainage systems, and safety measures. In the coming days, it will be crucial for the elected officials to not only maintain the improvements made so far but also tackle the challenges that persist for the betterment of the local communities.
