Illegal construction a bane

Ward 55 covers congested neighbourhoods of Seven Wells adjacent to Government Stanley Medical College Hospital.

The ward does not have major slums, public buildings, parks or playgrounds nor any landmarks. But it remains unique because of its spices trade.

“Thick population is the major cause of some civic issues, including sewage overflow on the streets,” said A. Krishnareddy, Corporation councillor.

“Officials are not listening to grievances of the public. Residents have started complaining,” he said.

Most of the buildings are illegal without any setback, exceeding the permissible floor space index. The area is classified as continuous building area and more than 50 illegal buildings have been estimated to be constructed in the ward in the past five years.

The ward has just two bus routes — Old Jail Road and Prakasam Salai — offering connectivity to other parts of the city. But the proposed Mannady Metro Rail station near the ward is likely to ease traffic congestion after a few years. Currently, the work on Metro Rail in such areas has increased traffic congestion, say residents. Interior roads such as Barrack Street, Seven Wells Street and roads near the Mannadi bus stop have a number of encroachments made by homeless daily-wage labourers.

More than 60 per cent of the streets are yet to find a solution to sewage overflow. Some of the old drains have been damaged. The ward also faces problems such as public health issues and inadequate garbage clearance. The government has not been able to complete any project to reduce traffic congestion. Corporation councillor A. Krishnareddy said Metro Rail in the neighbourhood is expected to improve the situation.