Mandapathur fishing village in Karaikal grapples with poor infrastructure, unsafe water

Residents of Mandapathur fishing village in Karaikal continue to face severe hardship owing to the lack of basic infrastructure, including proper road access, safe drinking water, and reliable electricity, affecting nearly 150 families in the coastal hamlet.

Villagers say the absence of a proper access road has made daily commuting difficult, especially during emergencies and adverse weather. Public transport connectivity is also a major concern, as there is no direct bus service between Karaikal Medu and Mandapathur. Residents from the cluster of ten surrounding villages depend largely on personal vehicles or autorickshaws, which charge as much as ₹500 to reach the Karaikal bus stand, particularly during late hours.

Fishermen in the village, including Veerapandiyan I. and R. Murgavel, said the drinking water supplied through public distribution points is often contaminated with visible black particles, raising fears over its safety and long-term health impacts. “We are forced to use this water as there is no alternative,” they said, urging authorities to ensure proper filtration and regular monitoring.

The lack of a sewage canal has further compounded the problem, with wastewater stagnating in residential areas and affecting hygiene and living conditions.

Electricity infrastructure in the village is also in a precarious state. Residents pointed out that more than eight electric poles are old, structurally weak, and at risk of collapsing, posing a danger to life and property, especially during strong winds.

Official sources said that road relaying works in the area have commenced and are expected to be completed within 15 days. and they would look into other issues.