Mohali civic body cracks down on food waste mismanagement

Two days ago, the municipal team disconnected water connections behind eateries at Phase 5 market as part of an emergency operation.

However, these connections were restored the very next day, raising questions about the intent and effectiveness of the action.

“If the connections were to be restored, why were they cut in the first place?” residents asked, hinting at possible political pressure behind the hasty reversal.

According to sources, most markets across Mohali house numerous eateries, dhabas, and showrooms. Many of these lack proper grease traps, leading to food waste being dumped into both sewer and rainwater drainage lines.

This malpractice has resulted in frequent sewer overflows, especially in residential areas adjacent to commercial blocks.

The Phase 5 operation was limited to one block where residents had been struggling with dirty water flooding their doorsteps due to recurring sewer back flow.

However, questions are now being raised as to why action was not extended to other affected areas, including another block in the same Phase, where similar violations and filth on the streets have been reported.

Some prominent restaurants in that area are also allegedly dumping waste into the sewer lines but have faced no action yet.

Municipal Commissioner Parminder Pal Singh Sandhu confirmed that the reconnections were restored only after eatery owners committed to proper waste management.

He added, “We are conducting regular inspections citywide. If anyone fails to comply, we will write to GMADA to cancel their property rights.”

He said that showrooms and food vendors across Mohali are being monitored, and fines are being issued wherever violations are found.

Establishments without grease traps or hygiene arrangements will have their water connections and cut again.

‘Acted only on one block… possible favouritism’

In Phase 3B2, Phase 5, phase 1 and other Booth Markets, vendors have been dumping waste directly into the sewer and rainwater drains, worsening the situation.

This issue is not limited to a few locations, it is widespread across all phases and sectors of the city, but the corporation acted only on one block, raising concerns about inconsistency and possible favouritism, said members of Market Assosiassion, Phase 5.

Connections restored after vendors assured compliance

Following the disconnection in Phase 5, eatery owners met the Municipal Commissioner, who directed them to immediately install grease traps and ensure regular cleaning.

The vendors assured compliance, after which their water supply was restored the next day.