More water for domestic use possible by diversion

Issues plaguing different parts of the city with regard to water scarcity and drainage blocks were brought up by a number of councillors.

North Zone Chairman K. Jayavel said that despite repeated requests and complaints, many areas in his zone had no supply of drinking water. “There has been no water in the borewells and supply through tanks has been erratic. On most days, we are left with absolutely no water at the start of the day and the people are reeling under the crisis”, he said.

Proposing a solution, Deputy Mayor R. Gopalakrishnan said that the extended areas which included wards 1,2,3,4 and 23 were, in particular, affected by severe water scarcity. “Water amounting to nearly 5 million litres per day (mld) is being reserved for industries.

Since they haven’t asked for water, we will discuss the possibility of releasing the water for domestic purpose and pass a resolution in the next council meeting”, he said.

Instances of wards facing day-to-day problems regarding sewage overflow and drainage blocks were brought up. CPI (M) Councillor M. Chellam asked for the number of machines that clear drains to be in good condition and for an increase in number. Similarly, Kannagi Baskaran, Works Committee Chairperson, said that many drains had been chocked with sand and needed routine cleaning to prevent blocks and sewage overflowing onto the roads.

Chairperson of the Health Committee S. Muniyandi sought construction of public restrooms and bathrooms which would help the visiting Ayyappa devotees at Tirupparankundram.