The Hindu 10.08.2009
Memories of drinking water mixing with sewage still linger
Deepa H Ramakrishnan and K. Lakshmi
— Photo: S.THANTHONI
PREPARATORY WORK: Stormwater drains on Pantheon road being attended to .
CHENNAI: The Chennai Corporation has identified a total of 1,500 overflow connections to its stormwater drain (SWD) network and 267 sewer outfalls from the network into the Cooum and Adyar rivers. The major problem areas include T. Nagar, Greams Road, Vyasarpadi and Kodungaiyur. During the monsoon many residents fear it is going to be a major issue.
“Even during summer several areas in north Chennai face the problem of frequent sewer blocks. In several areas where SWDs are available, the network is used for carrying sewage. We shudder to think what would happen during the rain. In low-lying areas there would be backflow of sewage and contamination could happen, said V. Shanmugasundaram, Chairman of Zone 2 of the Corporation.
“During the rain both rainwater and sewage will use the stormwater network. Similarly rainwater will run in the sewer lines. Plastic bags also block chute pipes leading into SWD. What we need is a long-term solution, which has to be planned and implemented by all departments concerned,” said M. Jayaraman, Zone 10 chairman. He also said the Public Works Department must desilt major canals before the onset of the monsoon. Every spell of rain brings with it the issue of drinking water mixing with sewage. Residents of various areas such as Parankusapuram in Kodambakkam and Padikuppam road have already begun complaining about sewage blocks. There have been a 25-30 per cent complaints pertaining to sewage to the complaint cell of the Metrowater over the past few months. However, Metrowater officials said steps were taken to combat problems pertaining to monsoon.
Of the total 15,743 streets in the city, nearly 250 streets including in areas such as Choolai, Muthamizh Nagar, Bhojaraja Nagar, parts of Puliathope and Kotturpuram, Gothamedu in Saidapet, Choolai Pallam and Foreshore Estate have been identified as those affected by frequent sewage problem during rain. Pipe supply would be suspended in flood-prone areas and supply would be done through tankers to avoid contamination.
