Chennai’s civic infrastructure watchdog, the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB), is gearing up to reinstate its monthly redressal grievance meeting, following the lifting of the model code of conduct by the Election Commission of India.
The move comes in response to mounting concerns over issues like sewage overflow, drinking water contamination, and other civic grievances that remained unaddressed amidst the electoral restrictions. During the period of the model code of conduct, which came into effect on May 16 due to the Lok Sabha elections, the scheduled grievance meetings were suspended, leaving residents grappling with unresolved civic issues. Instances of contaminated water supply through pipelines and hand pumps were reported, with residents facing difficulties in reaching out to the authorities for prompt resolution.
A resident from Royapuram highlighted the challenges faced during the period of restricted grievance redressal, emphasizing the importance of the monthly meetings in ensuring swift action on prolonged civic issues. The resumption of the monthly redressal grievance meeting is slated to take place on Saturday, from 10 am to 1 pm, at the respective metro water area offices across the city. The CMWSSB has extended an open invitation to the public, urging residents to attend the meeting and voice concerns related to water supply, sewage stagnation, drinking water quality, and requests for new connections in residential areas.
In light of the approaching northeast monsoon season, residents are encouraged to raise queries regarding rainwater harvesting, underscoring the board’s commitment to promoting sustainable water management practices. Additionally, the authorities will leverage the platform to enhance awareness about the importance of rainwater harvesting among the city’s populace. As Chennai prepares to navigate through its water management challenges, the reinstatement of the monthly grievance meetings by the CMWSSB serves as a crucial step towards fostering community engagement and addressing public concerns in a timely and effective manner.
