For the past 3 to 4 years, a recurring issue of sewerage line leakage has been affecting the Fatorda area, especially during the monsoon season. The affected site has been a breeding ground for mosquitoes, with residents worrying about the spread of vector-borne diseases.
Authorities from the Sewerage department have admitted that the blocked sewerage chambers are the prime cause; however, it has failed to address the issue.
Despite letters to the various concerned departments, there seems no respite. Even after connecting a new, modern sewerage line last November, the issue has continued this year, much to the dismay of the affected parties.
“We have been facing this issue each year and now for the past four months sewage water keeps overflowing. I have sent letters to the PWD and the Health Dept. but the health department references my letter to the PWD asking it to act, but there is no action,” said a resident.
Business owners in the area, particularly those running cafes, shops, etc are suffering financial losses as customers avoid the area due to the foul smell and unsanitary conditions. The situation has become so dire that local children must navigate through sewage water on their way to school. “I have rented out shops here and my tenants complain of the foul smell because of which their businesses are suffering, this issue needs to be resolved because even mosquitoes have increased in the area,” said a business owner.
Locals pointed out that both the corporation responsible for installing the lines and the department in charge of maintaining them need to collaborate to identify and address the fault.
Despite multiple letters sent to the PWD and the municipality, the issue remains unresolved, with blame being passed between departments. Residents and business owners are calling for immediate action to clear the chambers and fix the sewerage lines.
