Chennai: Puddles add to health problems in suburb

Chennai: The recent rains that lashed the city have added to the burden of Ayyappanthangal residents as waterlogged roads are not only causing traffic snarls but are also a breeding ground for mosquitoes, posing the risk of waterborne diseases. 

Between Ashok Brindavan Nagar and VGN Nagar, runs a 30-foot metro water canal, underneath which another water channel runs from Sembarambakkam to Valasaravakkam. “The test of time has resulted in potholes and puddles above the water canals. So, each time it rains, the water settles here. So far, two cases of dengue have been reported in the area,” said Senthil Kumar, a resident.

 It is learnt that the land where the water stagnates belongs to the government and the public healthcare department officials cite that as a reason for not levying a fine. 

Another issue is piles of garbage are mounted right next to the pool of stagnated water. The residents said the Panchayat officials dump the garbage on the ground for two months before they take it to Kundrathur dumping yard.

 “Now, the water mixed with the garbage is wreaking havoc in the area. While the Panchayat officials say the responsibility of clearing the water lies with the metro water department, the officials of metro water say the local body must take care of the area, irrespective of whose land it is,” added Senthil.