Ludhiana, Sept. 13 -- What was once a favoured stretch for morning walks, jogging and leisurely strolls has been reduced to an expanse of dust and puddles at Leisure Valley in Sarabha Nagar and along the canal, more than four months after it was dug up for pipeline laying under the city's upcoming 24/7 river-water supply project.

Although the pipeline-laying work has been completed and the excavated stretch covered with soil, the park has not been restored to its earlier condition. It now turns dusty during dry weather and waterlogged after rain.

"This used to be a pleasant spot as it didn't have any busy road running along it. You also have the canal running along it. It makes for a perfect spot for a morning walk, jog or a leisurely s...