Mohali: SBP Society residents protest over lack of basic amenities, question legal approvals

“The STP (sewage treatment plant) is completely non-functional,” said resident Sonu Paul, pointing to sewage water overflowing onto internal roads, causing foul smell and posing a serious risk of diseases. “During rain, the situation worsens as roads turn into pools of filthy water, increasing the threat of dengue and malaria.”

Power outages add to their woes. The residents complained that the backup generators are inadequate and often fail, leaving families without electricity for hours. “Children’s studies suffer and the elderly struggle during long blackouts,” they said.

According to Sundar Lal, a local resident, the builder has also failed to secure a fire safety NOC, while the installed fire-fighting equipment is either missing or non-functional. “If a fire breaks out, it could lead to a major disaster,” he warned.

The residents said that the society has not received approval from the Pollution Control Board, prompting the government to ban property registrations. “Buyers are suffering heavy losses because they cannot sell their properties,” they lamented.

Many residents said they purchased homes here in 2013–14, trusting the builder’s promises. “We were assured all facilities, but today we live in an unfinished society. Our lives are at risk,” they said.

Despite multiple written complaints to the authorities, no action has been taken. “It seems there is a nexus between the builder and government officials,” the residents alleged, warning of a larger agitation and possible legal action if the situation does not improve.
Responding to the allegations, Ankur Bakhshi, senior official of SBP, acknowledged the problems, stating, “We are aware of the residents’ concerns. Some work is complete and other pending tasks are being expedited. Delays in government approvals have caused certain hold-ups, but we are committed to providing all promised facilities soon.”