An estimated 300 residents of three streets at Pirattiyur have been resorting to open defecation in the fields for want of individual toilets at their residences. Located behind the office of the Regional Transport Officer, Pirattiyur forms the boundary of ward no. 40 of Tiruchirapalli City Corporation and Nachikurichi panchayat. Vacant sites at the village converted to residential plots by real estate dealers are used for open defecation.
Although the corporation had constructed a public toilet, it has been in disuse due to poor maintenance and non-supply of water. Residents say there are about 100 households without toilets and men manage to attend the nature’s call in the morning while women to avoid embarrassing situation use the open fields after sunset.
U. Devi and N. Kuzhandai Theres, residents, say drinking water supply has been inadequate.
The corporation should augment per capita supply through a comprehensive plan. Presently, the supply is through public taps between 6 a.m. and 7.30 a.m.
V. Pitchai says additional supply should be introduced for an hour in the evening. Many bore wells drilled by residents for household consumption have failed.
S. Irudhayamary and V. Shamugam, a former government officer, say drainage facility should be provided. Street taps located close to the open drains pose health hazard. Residents point out that oft-repeated plea to corporation officials has fallen on deaf ears. “It is a pity we are residents of Pirattiyur which is neither an urban nor a rural area,” she says.
