: Addressing Vadodara’s Persistent Civic Issues
Dear Mayor Pinky Soni,
As concerned citizens of Vadodara, we write to express our growing frustration over the persistent civic issues plaguing our city, particularly the water shortage, pothole-riddled roads after rainfall, and other unresolved municipal challenges. Despite repeated complaints and public outcry, these problems continue to disrupt daily life, and we seek clarity on why decisive action has not been taken.
First, the water shortage in several areas of Vadodara remains a pressing concern. Many neighborhoods face irregular water supply, with some receiving water only for a few hours daily or at low pressure. This affects households, schools, and businesses, compromising hygiene and quality of life. What steps is the Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC) taking to ensure equitable and consistent water distribution? Are there plans to address infrastructure leaks or expand water storage capacity to meet the city’s growing needs?
Second, the condition of our roads, especially after rainfall, is deplorable. Potholes have become a common sight, turning commutes into hazardous journeys for two-wheelers, cars, and pedestrians alike. Areas like Alkapuri, Gotri, and Waghodia Road are particularly affected, with waterlogging exacerbating the damage. Monsoon after monsoon, the same issues persist, raising questions about the quality of road repairs and drainage systems. Why have preventive measures, such as pre-monsoon road maintenance or improved stormwater drainage, not been prioritized? Are there specific timelines for repairing these roads and ensuring they withstand seasonal rains?
Beyond these, other civic issues—such as erratic garbage collection, stray animal management, and inadequate street lighting in certain areas—continue to erode Vadodara’s reputation as a vibrant, well-managed city. Residents have repeatedly raised these concerns through complaints, social media, and local forums, yet tangible progress seems elusive. We understand that managing a city is complex, but the lack of visible action or communication from your office leaves us questioning the VMC’s commitment to its citizens.
We respectfully urge you to provide a transparent account of the steps being taken to address these issues. Specifically, we request:
- A detailed plan to resolve the water shortage, including timelines for infrastructure upgrades.
- A roadmap for road repairs and drainage improvements to prevent potholes and waterlogging.
- A comprehensive strategy to tackle other civic concerns, with clear accountability measures.
Vadodara deserves better. We hope this letter prompts urgent action and open dialogue with residents. We look forward to your response and, more importantly, to seeing meaningful change in our city.
Sincerely,
Concerned Citizens of Vadodara
