Poor roads and footpaths, encroachments on storm water drains and mushrooming constructions in ward 74, Thiru.Vi.Ka Nagar, are some of the major issues worrying the residents.
“There is no way out for the rainwater. So whenever it rains for more than a day, my family and I stay at my sister’s place. It is impossible to stay here when it rains,” complained R. Balu, a resident of Secretariat Colony. “Despite several complaints to the authorities, no action has been taken. The entire colony is suffering because of few people’s greed,” he said, pointing out to the private shops and compound wall constructed over the drain.
Sivasamy, an autorickshaw driver said that most roads needed to be repaired immediately. “The dust on the road often obstructs visibility while driving. I was recently diagnosed with asthma, but I have no choice. It would be a great help if they repair the Brick Kiln road and the others as well,” he added.
R. Sukumari, a student, said that the locality needed footpaths too. “There are no pavements, and the ones that are in place are occupied by small shops and vendors, leaving no place for pedestrians,” she said.
Local authorities on the other hand, said that they have been taking necessary steps to remove encroachments from the stormwater drain in Secretariat Colony. “We have issued several warnings and notices to the owners, but they are refusing to move. We have approached the higher officials for help take action and demolish the illegal structures,” said Hema Malini Sugumar, ward councillor. She added that new pavements and roads would be laid soon. “In the last five years we have repaired and re-laid most roads in the ward. Vendors will be evicted soon too,” she added.
