Since 1980, Still Waiting: Pollishree Lane Residents Repair Lane Themselves, Threaten Poll Boycott

Residents of Pollishree Lane at Chittaranjan Avenue in the National Highway in Silchar have threatened to boycott the upcoming civic body election, alleging years of neglect over roads, drainage and street lighting.

Residents of the lane, which they said was established in 1980, raised their grievances before the media on Sunday (September 13). They alleged that despite repeated elections and promises from political representatives, no lasting solution has been found to the problems affecting the area.

According to residents, the road remains in poor condition and the drainage system is heavily clogged. They said even light rain can leave parts of the lane waterlogged, creating difficulties for pedestrians and families trying to take patients to hospitals.

Residents also raised concerns over street lighting. They alleged that neighbouring lanes have proper lights at their electricity poles, while Pollishree Lane and several other nearby lanes continue to face inadequate lighting. They questioned whether political connections had influenced the availability of street lights in neighbouring areas, though this allegation could not be independently verified.

The residents said they have repeatedly sought assistance from elected representatives and the municipality but claimed that their problems remain unresolved. They also alleged that political leaders often visit the area during elections and make promises, but become difficult to reach after the elections are over.

With little improvement, residents said they have now started repairing parts of the lane themselves. However, they claimed that the materials required for the work have been obtained from vendors on credit, leaving them uncertain about how the costs will ultimately be paid.

One resident said the community has been waiting for development since the lane was established in 1980 and demanded that authorities disclose details of any funds sanctioned for the lane’s development or repair over the years.

Residents further demanded that the municipality and elected representatives take up the road, drainage and street lighting issues before the civic election. They said they would reconsider their decision on voting if visible development work is carried out.

The lane reportedly has more than 200 voters across Wards 33 and 34. Residents have now issued a clear message ahead of the civic polls: development work must come first, followed by their decision on whether to vote.

The residents’ claims regarding fund allocation, past government spending and the alleged difference in street-lighting facilities between neighbouring lanes would require verification from official municipal, government and public representatives’ records.

For now, their proposed poll boycott reflects growing frustration among residents who say repeated promises have not translated into visible development on the ground.