Choked drainage inconveniencing residents

Overflowing wastewater in drains is a common sight at Christian Colony in ward number 15, in Chikkamagaluru.

The wastewater from in and around the colony is let into the open drains. In addition, the residents continue to dump garbage into the drain. The problem gets aggravated during the monsoon.

The drains have turned out to be a very unpleasant experience for the residents. A few of the houses in the colony are situated adjacent to the drains and the residents suffer from health complications quite often.

The drain is filled with weeds near Madhuvana layout in addition to garbage. The dumping of the garbage chokes the flow of the drain.

"I had suffered from dengue last year. I have been suffering from fever and am on my way to the hospital for treatment. The smell emanating from the drain is unbearable. In spite of bringing the issue to the notice of the authorities, no action has been initiated to clear the drains," said Khayyam.

Pungavana, a homemaker said, "I suffered from Chikungunya last month and am yet to recover from the joint pains. The elected representatives visit us only during the election and never return to solve our woes after winning the election."

A masjid is situated adjacent to the drain. Hundreds of devotees who visit the masjid for prayers have to pray amid this foul smell. The stagnant sewage overflows onto the road during rain and dirty water enters nearby houses as well.

Karnataka Rajya Ekatha Vedike President Afzal Pasha said, "We have brought the issue to the notice of the CMC. The Minor Irrigation Department was also asked to construct the drain scientifically. However, none listen to our woes."

CMC member B R Dinesh said the drain comes under the Minor Irrigation Department. The land on either side of the drains has been encroached upon. However, the department has failed to initiate any action in this regard, he added.