Over 200 residents of Kannagi Nagar protested against the lack of basic amenities in their colony on Monday. They were relocated to the colony a couple of years ago. The agitating people said that they received drinking water only once in three days and the stagnation of drainage water had led to the breeding of mosquitoes in the colony.
Despite frequent complaints to the authorities, no action has been taken, they said.
“Drainage water is seeping inside the house because of which there are several insects. I have been spending all my money buying allergy tablets,” said a resident who did not wish to be named.
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“After they were relocated, these people have problems in accessing even the basic amenities. A community hall has been converted into a police station here. Of course, a police station is essential but the people of this colony also need a community hall,” said Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi’s Kancheepuram district secretary C.K. Viduthalai Chezhian, who led the protest.
An official from Tamil Nadu Slum Clearance Board refuted the claims of the residents and said that they supplied water on every alternate day.
“We supply water every alternate day through hand pump and taps for over 14,500 tenements. As for the drainage problems, the people are responsible for careless disposal of garbage,” said an official.
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“We led a contented life back in the city. Now, we are battling all kinds of problems. My sons spend Rs. 100 in commuting back and forth from the workplace every day,” said Lakshmi Chandran, who was relocated from Mandaveli along with several others who were pavement dwellers.