While meeting the officials of different departments, the residents of Kodambakkam did not hold anything back. They described in graphic detail all the problems plaguing the neighbourhood.
Encroachment, drainage and poor lighting were among a raft of issues that came up for discussion in this meeting with officials from the Corporation, Metro Water and the electricity board.
For long, the residents’ association has been demanding removal of encroachments from the pavements of Station View Road, Akbarabad Street, Taylor’s Estate and Viwanathapuram Main Road. They said that due to the presence of these vendors, pedestrians were being forced to walk on the busy roads.
Kodambakkam flyover was the hot topic for the residents, who wanted lights to be installed under the flyover and a police booth installed there.
Drainage overflow has been a recurrent problem and residents demanded that Metro Water check for illegal sewer connections into the storm water drains, particularly on Station View Road. They also pointed out that manhole of sewer lines had sunk below the road level and some were badly damaged.
To make waiting for buses comfortable, they requested re-construction of a bus shelter opposite Meenakshi College that had been removed few years ago.
They are also planning to write to the Railways asking for the creation of one more entry point near Kodambakkam flyover to decongest Station View Road.
As a measure to recharge groundwater, the residents wanted the Corporation to make rainwater harvesting mandatory in all buildings. They also want periodical supervision and inspection of garbage clearance in the area.
Illegal parking also discussed and one of the members pointed out to a motorcycle dealer parking his vehicles on Taylor’s Estate Second Street.
Addressing Tangedco officials, residents made a representation for converting overhead cables to underground ones to prevent any mishap. They also want an additional transformer for the area.
Though the police officials were also invited to the meet, none from the department participated.
After listening to their representations, officials promised early solutions.