New stormwater drains constructed by civic agencies such as Highways Department and Chennai Corporation have reportedly collapsed on several stretches during the recent rains.
Owing to waterlogging on many arterial roads near Ripon Buildings, Egmore MLA K.S. Ravichandran has asked civic agencies to take initiatives to restore stormwater drains. On Friday, Mr. Ravichandran met with Highways Secretary Rajeev Ranjan, demanding an inquiry into the collapse of the drains within two months of completion of work by the Highways Department.
“The Highways Department constructed a stormwater drain and a footpath along Poonamallee High Road near Ripon Buildings in Ward 58 two months ago. The stormwater drain and footpath have been damaged in the recent rains. Residents, students and commuters who use the stretch have started complaining. They are demanding an assessment of the quality of the material used for the stormwater drain and footpath from Ripon Buildings to St. Andrews Church,” said Mr. Ravichandran.
Similarly, the Corporation has failed to maintain the stormwater drains on E.V.K. Sampath Salai, Pantheon Road and Ritherdon Road, causing waterlogging in many areas. The drains have been constructed, but have not been linked to major waterways. Officials used a 25 hp motor to bale out water for three days,” said Mr. Ravichandran.
“Waterlogging is severe in Periyar Thidal, gate number 3,4 of Police Commissioner Office and other neighbourhoods. They should construct a new drain,” he said.
