Open pits dug for CMWSSB work a threat in Manapakkam

CHENNAI: The works undertaken by the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB) in Manapakkam has become a major source of discomfort for commuters and residents in the area. Residents claim that pits dug out by the CMWSSB have been left open for days and the mud is dumped on the roadside, ultimately taking up driving space.

While commuters avoid Manapakkam Main Road due to several pits on the road, they allege that rest of the interior roads are also in shoddy condition.

Speaking to DT Next, V Nagarajan, a Manapakkam resident said, “Most part of the Manapakkam Main Road is dug out for metro water work and the mud collected is dumped near the working site. All this work has left no room for commuters. Additionally, the River-View Road is also dug up by the CMWSSB for the same project.”

According to sources, the CMWSSB project is estimated to be completed in 2023. But, residents and commuters claim why take up the work right before the Northeast monsoon and without ensuring other roads are in proper condition.

“The state department should ensure the public are in comfort or in the least not disturbed before implementing any project. But, the roads under use for the metro water project are barely usable. No two vehicles can pass simultaneously on the road,”added Nagarajan.

At present, as Chennai city is witnessing erratic rainfall, Manapakkam residents fear that the metro water work will be paused by the CMWSSB and urged to wrap up the project before Northeast monsoon.

Citing the death of a 17-year-old schoolgirl who died after a bus ran over her in Chromepet in August, another resident said, “Several pits, slush and sudden rainfall can lead to fatalities in Manapakkam. Hence, before any such untoward incidents occur, the government should intervene and ensure proper protocols are followed.”

Furthermore, shop owners in the area also claim that deliveries are not being made in the area due to poor road conditions. Meanwhile autos and cab drivers also cancel rides due to poor roads.

Gnanasekaran, resident of Mariamman Koil Street added that the dugout mud has not been cleared for more than three weeks due to the project implementation.

CMWSSB officials did not respond despite multiple attempts.