Neglect Chokes Kokar Industrial Area: Drainage Failures, Potholes, Waste Pile-Up Trigger Alarm
"Trucks often get stuck in the mud. It's difficult to move in or out, especially after rain. Sometimes, we wait for hours," said Shiv Prasad, a truck driver who regularly navigates the industrial zone.
Poor drainage has left the area waterlogged after every spell of rain, creating craters and stagnant pools across the roads. Garbage lies in the open, with industrial waste dumped without regulation, leading to serious environmental and health concerns.
There's no public toilet, and the few facilities that exist remain unusable.
For residents and students nearby, the conditions are no better. "There's a library close by, but I can't reach it during rain. The road gets flooded. I miss several classes because of this," said Puja Bharti, a student who lives in the area
The Moreish Bread factory, along with other manufacturing units like AVI Polymers, Berger Paints, and several other small-scale production units, operate under grim circumstances.
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Yet, they continue to contribute significantly to the state's industrial revenue.
Paresh Gattani, President of FJCCI (Federation of Jharkhand Chamber of Commerce and Industries), expressed deep concern. "Multiple letters have been sent to the government demanding proper maintenance. Industrial waste is scattered openly, the drainage system is completely clogged, and potholes are countless. Stagnant water is seen across the area.
Being an industrial zone, it's shocking that there's no fire station.
Recently, a fire broke out in one of the factories. This shows how unprepared we are," he said
While the problems are plenty, some hope seems to be on the horizon. Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary of JIADA (Jharkhand Industrial Area Development Authority), confirmed that revival plans are underway. "A Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been prepared, tenders have been floated, and cost estimations finalised.
Post-monsoon, we will begin comprehensive work on drainage, road repairs, lighting, and waste management.
The state government will provide 50% of the funding. Not just Kokar, all major industrial areas across Jharkhand are set for redevelopment soon," he said
Until then, Kokar's industrial ecosystem continues to struggle under layers of filth, water, and silence.
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