Delayed SWD works on Gandhi-Irwin Road pose health risk to students

CHENNAI: Students and teachers of Dr Ambedkar Government Higher Secondary School at Gandhi Irwin Road have been enduring a slew of troubles due to two-month long construction of storm water drain (SWD) in the area.

The construction of storm water drains is underway at multiple places in the city, with a deadline before the northeast monsoon. But, due to delay in work and inefficient planning at many areas, residents and commuters in the respective locations are subjected to issues such as traffic congestion, open sewage, mosquito breeding and shoddy road conditions.

With the SWD construction currently taking place under the Gandhi Irwin bridge, right opposite to the higher secondary school, students are forced to sit in class under uncomfortable circumstances.

A teacher in the school where nearly 100 students are studying said, “The construction had been going on for more than two months. Yes, students and teachers are forced to endure situations such as foul smell and sewage overflow during rainfall. Also, posing various health risks.”

The teacher further added that as this is the government project aimed to tackle flooding and rainfall during the northeast monsoon, they have decided to wait till the work is finished.

When DT Next visited the school a couple of days ago, students were spotted crossing the SWD in a dangerous manner.

A Class 9 student said, “Sewage stagnation has led to mosquitoes breeding and added stench in the area. We can barely sit in the class, due to this. Also, there is a danger of falling ill.”

“Though teachers said the work is underway to tackle excess rainfall and flooding, which are likely during the year end, we hope the Chennai Corporation completes the work soon, “added the student.

Meanwhile, workers at the site confirmed that the job would be completed in 20 days. However, officials did not respond when contacted.