Pasighat drainage leak opposite SBI sparks public outcry

A severely leaking drainage system opposite the State Bank of India (SBI) Pasighat main branch near Mamang Petrol Depot is creating an unhygienic environment for commuters, shopkeepers, and bank customers, prompting urgent calls for repair by the Pasighat Municipal Council (PMC) and Pasighat Smart City Development Corporation Ltd. (PSCDCL).

The overflow of foul-smelling sewage water stretches from the leak point up to the entry gate of the Pasighat Police Station, affecting areas along Mamang Petrol Depot and Sanggo Gas Agency. Despite public complaints and growing discomfort, no repairs have been initiated for several days.

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SBI officials confirmed the leak originates near the PMC-managed parking lot. “The drainage water flows near our entry gate. We’ve tried to manage it with sand, but the smell and unhygienic conditions continue to impact customers and staff,” said an SBI representative.

When contacted, PMC Chief Councillor Smty Okiam Moyong Borang assured that she would coordinate with officials and engineers for immediate inspection and repair, provided the drainage falls under PMC jurisdiction.

This incident sheds light on larger drainage and waterlogging issues in Pasighat, especially in key market areas like Banskata and Jarkong. Despite being selected under the Smart City Mission in 2017, Pasighat continues to face persistent drainage problems during the monsoon, raising concerns about planning and maintenance by civic authorities.