BBMP turns up nose at Russell Market’s stinking problem

BENGALURU: If BBMP has been unable to address this stinking problem right in the heart of the city, one can only pity people living in the outskirts. Residents of Charminar Masjid Road near Russell Market are exposed to health hazards due to the mixing of sewage with drinking water. Sewage overflows onto the roads emitting an unbearable stench.

Scores of people have fallen sick and visit hospitals frequently because of the problem which has persisted for quite some time. Repeated complaints by residents to BBMP have fallen on deaf ears. It has become impossible to drive on the narrow road and even walk.

A few shops were built on the existing drain which is an offence under the Karnataka Municipal Corporations (KMC) Act. This has led to choking of the drain as the blocks in them could not be cleared. The shops have now been demolished to ensure smooth flow of water especially during the rainy season, said Abdul Nazeer, a resident.

At least two to three mayors and commissioners have inspected the drain and promised to fix it so that sewage does not flow onto the road. But their assurances have proved hollow, he added.

“The stagnant water on the road is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. It is impossible to do business here. We keep our stuff like vegetables and fruits on the footpath but due to the stench, no one purchases anything,” said K. Manikanth, a vendor.

During the rainy season, water from the drain and road gushes into houses damaging furniture. The mud and sewage also contaminates water stored in the sump. A BBMP engineer said the drains are not wide enough to carry storm water and added that now, the depth and width have been increased.

One more drain is under construction while drain work on Armstrong Road  at a cost of Rs 6 crore has to be approved by the government before it can begin, he said.