Citizen connect: Residents dump waste into canal on Rajaji Street in absence of garbage bins

Fearing that the issue poses a serious health hazard, the residents alleged that no steps are being taken by civic authorities. “Earlier, we had an empty space to dump garbage, but the municipality stopped us from doing it. But, they did not give us an alternative by placing garbage bins. So, the residents started dumping waste in public places,” said Kalaivani M, a resident of Rajaji Street.

She added that sanitary workers come to the street only once or twice a week. On the days they do not come, we do not have a choice but to keep the garbage inside the house and it poses serious health issues, the resident rued.

“As the lake is filled with garbage, there are mosquitoes breeding and children are falling sick. We are forced to close all the windows and it is suffocating as the summer has started,” she added.

The residents added that they have taken this issue to the MLA of the area, who also resides on the same street. However, there no action has been taken to clean the canal or street yet.

The residents also complained that stray dogs and cattle eat plastic from the waste and scatter them around. Residents said that the issue poses a threat to their health and makes the streets looks like a mess. “The garbage has not only worsened the locality’s hygiene factor but has also increased the mosquito menace. A foul smell is also emanating from the mound. Many children have been hospitalised due to lack of hygiene. We request officials to act fast and clear the spot,” said Sukumaran, another resident of Rajaji Street.

When contacted, the municipality official said that they have not received any complaint. They ensure that steps will be taken to clean the lake and road.