Incomplete UGD, an open threat to Kanchi people

Several cases of motorist falling into the open unfinished system were also reported in the recent past.

The situation in some of the areas coming under the Kancheepuram municipality, which has 51 wards under its control, turned worse after the recent summer rain as the sewage water stagnated on streets.

Residents claimed that five years ago the municipality started the construction of a storm water drain in the 25th ward, but the work has still not been completed. They pointed out that during the recent rains, water stagnated in many parts due to the incomplete drains. Some pedestrians and motorists even fell into the unfinished drains and suffered injuries.

Meanwhile, locals also said that the municipality officials have not cleared the blocked drainage for several months now and this has resulted in the dirty water overflowing on to the streets. “Moreover, the largest municipality in the district, Kancheepuram does not have a permanent commissioner and the municipal engineer is serving as the in-charge of the urban body for the last four years,” said Kumaravel, a resident.

The situation is bad in the Kancheepuram Market area, New Street, Thanama Street, Putheri Street and near the Kancheepuram bus station compared to other parts.

Residents welfare associations in and around Kancheepuram are planning to stage a massive protest, if the UGD and storm water drain works were not completed soon.

When contacted by DT Next, Kancheepuram municipal engineer R Mahendran said, “We are planning to complete the drainage work soon and UGD issues are also being sorted out. Soon both the works will be finished,” he said.