Non -lifting of garbage by the municipal corporation employees has literally converted numerous Patiala colonies into a garbage dump. While the employees blame the residents for dumping garbage at sights not earmarked for it, no efforts are being made to clear the areas. People say heaps of garbage remain dumped on main roads for days and lifted partially after repeated reminders to the local officials. "Garbage-lifters visit the dumping grounds after a week. The dumps create problems for the commuters. It stinks so badly that it is impossible for people to cross the place,' said Amaninder Singh, a shopkeeper near Multi Purpose School. The situation is worse at a road near Badungar where heaps of garbage have blocked the main road. "Many times scooters skid while navigating through garbage heaps. The situation is bad and there is a possibility of an epidemic but nobody cares. The area has become a breeding ground for germs,' said a resident of Badungar Basti. Patiala Mayor Ajit Pal Singh said over 20 containers have been installed in various parts of the city to solve the mess. "More staff will be deputed for this to ensure the smooth passage of the monsoon season,' said Kohli.