Residents of Old Washermenpet have voiced growing frustration over the sluggish pace of underground sewage pipeline replacement works being conducted by the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB). The project, which began over six months ago, has left significant sections of local roads disrupted and has exacerbated issues of sewage overflow and stagnation in the area.
The affected roads, including Singara Garden Street in Old Washermenpet and Somu Chetty Street in Royapuram, serve as vital connectors to key commercial hubs and main roads such as GA Road and MS Koil Street. The ongoing disruption has forced commuters to take lengthy detours, severely impacting daily travel and adding to the inconvenience faced by residents and local businesses. Initial relief turned into disappointment as the replacement work proceeded at a frustratingly slow pace. Residents initially welcomed the project, hopeful that it would resolve long-standing issues with overflowing sewage from residential buildings. However, the delays have not only led to prolonged inconvenience but have also turned the construction sites into dumping grounds for garbage and debris, compounding the issue with poor solid waste management and unhygienic conditions.
A resident from Old Washermenpet highlighted the dire situation, stating, “When the department began the work, it was a relief. But the slow progress has caused severe problems for pedestrians, motorists, and especially school children who face daily detours.” With the northeast monsoon approaching, there are concerns that the situation could worsen, leading to further sewage overflow and increased public health risks. Local authorities have been criticized for their lack of urgency in addressing the matter. An assistant engineer from the metro water board attributed the delays to the complexity of replacing pipelines dating back to the British era. This response has not been well received by residents, who are calling for a swift resolution to prevent further disruption.
Residents have urged the CMWSSB to expedite the replacement process, requesting that the work be completed within a month to mitigate the risk of sewage stagnation and the associated public health hazards. The community’s call for faster action underscores the urgent need for efficient project management and effective response from the authorities to ensure timely completion of essential infrastructure works. As the situation remains critical, it is imperative for the CMWSSB to address these concerns promptly and ensure that the necessary repairs are carried out without further delay, to restore normalcy and improve living conditions in Old Washermenpet.
