THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The city's sewerage system continues to go haywire with the slightest rains as many users illegally channel stormwater into it. Overflowing utility holes continue to be a regular sight at localities like Sreevaraham, MP Appan Road and Forest Lane at Vazhuthacaud. "On normal days, if we operate sewage pumps for two hours, the pipes will be cleared, and then we can switch off the pumps for an hour. On rainy days we engage in round the clock pumping, and still, we are unable to handle the load. Sewage overflows into the stormwater drain for days in many areas," said a senior Kerala Water Authority (KWA) Official.
While it was possible to reprimand the offender and snap drainage connection for the offence, the KWA was unable to do an inspection. "We can't inspect pipes as they often are covered by concrete or floor tiles. We instruct consumers against connecting stormwater pipes at the time of giving connection. So, they still do it purposefully," he added. In countries like the UK, they install flow meters on sewage lines, and consumers pay for the sewerage services for the water drains into the public sewer.
In Thiruvananthapuram, only an additional 10 percent on water bill and service charges are collected. The upcoming Smart City project proposes flow meter to drainage connection. Though the water oozing out of manhole looks clear, the health hazards it posses are high, say health officials. Scrub Typhus and Shigellosis (dysentery) can affect those who get exposed to the water. "Salmonella, virus and bacteria are plenty in the sewage that mixes with rainwater. It can cause infection if you have slightest cut on the skin. There is no habit of using rain boots in Kerala. Its high time we take such precautions," said Dr R. Krishnaprasad, a Pongumoodu based physician.
