Ludhiana, Dec. 28 -- Several dark patches on NH-44 from the Jalandhar Bypass towards Sherpur Chowk have become a major safety concern for commuters, as streetlights on long stretches of the highway are lying defunct. At many locations, damaged storm sewer covers and open pits have also been left unattended, posing a serious risk to motorists during the evening and night hours.

The storm sewer project along this stretch was started almost two years ago by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). However, a portion of the work remains incomplete. In some places, broken sewer covers have been loosely placed or replaced with temporary slabs, while in other areas the chambers are filled with garbage. Commuters say these dark spots and...