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AMC set to install ventilating columns over manhole covers

Friday, 19 July 2013 09:10 administrator
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The Indian Express                19.07.2013

AMC set to install ventilating columns over manhole covers

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) will install a ventilating column system over manhole covers, after deaths in Narol earlier this year were believed to be caused by poisonous gases emanating from sewers. The project, expected to cost Rs 4 crore, will include all manhole covers in the city, especially in the old city areas.

In January, three people, including two children, were found dead in Narol. It was suspected that poisonous gases from the drains led to these deaths. "The project was floated after the Narol incident. It is meant to stop the recurrence of similar incidents in the future," said AMC city engineer Tarun Lad. Details from each zone have already been called for to gauge the number of manhole covers and positioning of the ventilating columns. The project testing has been done in areas around SP ring road and will soon be replicated all over the city. According to civic authorities, the project is expected to be completed within six months of releasing the tenders.

Presently, there is a manhole after every 30-40 metres on the main sewage trunk in Ahmedabad, with dangerous gases, like carbon monoxide, methane and sulphur, emanating from it. The ventilated columns to be installed on the manhole covers are expected to take care of these gases.