Ludhiana, Aug. 3 -- Despite repeated assurances and repair works undertaken by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the service lane along the Ludhiana-Delhi highway, particularly the stretch from Transport Nagar to Samrala Chowk remains in a deplorable state.

Notably, a year ago, NHAI had repaired a portion of the service lanes near the entry point of Transport Nagar. However, it has failed to bring any lasting relief. With every spell of rain this monsoon, the road continues to deteriorate, subjecting daily commuters and truckers to bumpy and hazardous rides, locals said.

While officials continue to pass the buck between the NHAI and private contractors over maintenance and drainage issues, crater-like potholes, broken sur...