Ramanathapuram residents decry persistent sewage overflow

Overflowing of sewage water into streets of Elangovadigal Road in Ramanathapuram has caused residents to endure severe hardships and raised serious concerns over the potential outbreak of waterborne diseases in the locality. 

Nagalingam, a resident of the area, said, though the municipality workers clean the Underground Drainage (UGD) manhole frequently, the outdated sewage disposal method in the households prevents a seamless connection to the main grid, causing constant backlogs. 

Due to the proximity of a nearby water body and the low-lying position of the manholes, household sewage and runoff enter the UGD system in excessive volumes, leaving insufficient time for the water to flow effectively through the outlets, he added.  

Sathaiyah, another resident, said the primary issue was the ineffective disposal methods employed by commercial establishments along the main road. 

Overflowing of drainage water in Elangovadigal street in Ramanathapuram.
| Photo Credit:
L. BALACHANDAR

“As their discharge volume far exceeds the holding capacity of the UGD system, it frequently becomes choked, causing sewage to overflow into the streets and nearby houses,” he added. 

While sanitation workers attempt to remove waste and clear blockages in the UGD system, the overflow will only worsen unless there is complete restructuring of the infrastructure, he noted. 

Due to the prolonged stagnation of wastewater, the foul stench emanating from the streets has raised fears of a disease outbreak. “With many children living in the houses throughout this area, we are deeply concerned that this will lead to the spread of infectious diseases,” Mr. Sathaiyah noted. 

“Although municipal officials visited the area to inspect the situation and oversee cleaning operations, the issue will not be resolved until proper restructuring is carried out,” he noted. 

Ramanathapuram Municipality officials stated that they have regularly removed the wastewater whenever complaints were received. “We are also working on a plan to completely resolve the issue,” the official added.