Minjur locals fear disease outbreak due to open drains

Locals claim that a drainage canal passed through their village and as it was not maintained properly, it led to the stagnation of sewage.

According to the locals, the canal was originally built as a storm water drain but was mostly used for transferring sewage from homes and business establishments, that largely caused the problems in the area, which is home to over 10,000 families.

“Besides, people throw domestic waste and plastics items in the canal which clogs the water, raising an unbearable stink. Vegetable waste and other garbages are also thrown here that leads to outbreak of diseases as it is a breeding ground for mosquitos and other insects,” said Mohan K, a resident of Valluthikaimedu.

He added that lately, several children and local citizens have been suffering from vector-borne diseases. “Besides, we often find that water seeps outside the canal. Therefore, there’s a risk that it could even mix with the groundwater if action is not taken immediately,” he said.

When asked about the issue, Block Development Officer (BDO) J Ravi said that he was unaware of the issue and would look into it. “I have not been aware of the issue as I was posted here recently. Since it is an issue concerning public health, we will take it up on priority basis,” the BDO said.