Citizen Connect: Open defecation, overflowing bins of Kalmandabam force residents to live in unhygienic surroundings

The residents of Kalmandabam are irked over the overflowing garbage bins that have become a common sight to them and complain that the sanitary workers clean them only once in a while. They also allege that when the residents try to reach out to the concerned officials to clean the garbage twice or thrice a day, the Corporation has failed to take any steps.

Waste is overflowing along the residential space and people cover their noses while crossing the bins, as it has been strewn the entire stretch, the residents say. “The road gives an awful feeling with the garbage bin overflowing and people in the neighbourhood do not seem to have a solution for it. The waste is spreading out all over the road and is a concern among residents.” says Nila Shree M, a resident of Kalmandabam.

She also adds that the sanitary workers come once in two weeks or a month to collect the garbage and apart from problems of disposal, the health risk involved is also plenty. “We are worried about the new viral infections that are spreading in recent days,” says the resident. The residents also complain that they are going through a harrowing experience, post this problem. “The dumped garbage has not only worsened the locality’s hygiene but has also increased mosquito menace.” says Karunakaran V, another resident. A foul smell is also emerging from the mound with cattle feeding on it and messing up the area and many children are hospitalised due to the hygienic, says the resident and adds that they have requested the officials to act fast and clear the spot as soon as possible.

The public also complain that the practice of open defecation prevails and it stinks a lot. “Few days ago, we found a dead cat lying in the garbage and we called the zonal office to clean the place, but they have not responded. Hence, we took it up for ourselves and cleared the cat from the garbage since it was stinking bad.” says a shopkeeper. He also complains that they are forced to close the windows throughout the day and because of which the kids in the locality often fall sick. During rain, the situation is even worse and the waste floats in the water and it is disgusting to step out of the house at that time,” adds the shopkeeper.

When contacted, a senior Corporation official said that the sanitary workers are clearing the waste every day and they ensure that it is cleaned twice a day.