Mayor V.V. Rajan Chellappa came down heavily on Assistant Engineers (AEs) with the Corporation and urged them to be more involved in solving problems related to water and drainage at a special grievance meeting here on Tuesday.
“The AEs have to be aware of the problems related to water supply and overflow of drains in the areas they are in charge of and should be active in taking preventive measures, not wait for calls or complaints each time. They should also ensure better coordination and working between the lower officials,” said Mr. Rajan Chellappa.
Asking them to visit their wards regularly and interact with the people, Mr. Rajan Chellappa questioned the Assistant Commissioners whether the cleaning of the banks of the Vaigai was taking place every Sunday.
“Under the Amma Thittam, workers should be engaged in cleaning the banks of the Vaigai and the ACs should monitor this,” he stated.
Mr. Rajan Chellappa also asked them to work with the councillors and help in preparation of estimates for developmental works to be carried out in the wards under the councillors funds.
Reacting to concerns raised by the AEs that they had been posted newly to a few areas, Commissioner C. Kathiravan told them that it was their duty to know about the inherent problems in the ward and study the area well.
“Develop an inter-personal relationship with the ward councillors as they represent the people’s problems. The higher officials, including me, can even be contacted through ‘WhatsApp’ in the case of an issue that needs immediate attention for the benefit of the people,” he said.
City Engineer A. Mathuram said that while the pressure in the water supply lines was adequate in most areas, he asked the officials to rectify such issues in wards at the earliest.
“If complaints are received about sewage water mixing with drinking water and being supplied, ensure that it is set right within 24 hours. Keep a check on pumping stations as it will help solve problems related to the overflow of drainages,” he said.
