Sewage overflow raises a stink in Royapuram for a month

Chennai

“I have been a resident of the area for more than 20 years. The sewage overflow has not been fixed for a month and the smell from it unbearable. The leak starts in front of an individual house in the locality. It overflows due to a clog in the drain and spreads to the whole street within a matter of time. It is even difficult to cook food at home because of the stench. Also, given the street is very narrow, it is difficult for the public to walk without coming in contact with the sewage water. Adding to the problem, speeding vehicles splash the water on to pedestrians,” said Murugesan E, a resident of Surya Narayana Street.

Locals said they have already raised several complaints, but Metrowater has taken no action. “Four months ago, the sewage overflowed and stagnated on the road for more than a week. After filing complaints, officials took immediate step to unclog the drain. When the officials visited the spot last time, they said that it is the resident’ responsibility to stop the sewage overflow. But we pay tax and it is the responsibility of the civic body if sewage overflows on to the road,” said Roshima R, another resident.

Speaking to DT Next, Paneer Selvam, Executive Engineer, Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewage Board, said, “We are taking steps to arrest sewage overflow in the locality. A few months ago, we cleared the place after receiving a complaint. We haven’t got any complaints recently.”