Slow pace of UGD work worsens condition of roads in Gandhi Nagar

The underground drainage (UGD) work in Gandhi Nagar at Crawford has been dragging on for more than two years, causing persistent hardship to residents of the area.

The second phase of the UGD project undertaken by the Tiruchi Corporation on Gandhi Nagar First Main Road, a 500-metre stretch, commenced in December 2023. Despite being a key connecting road within the residential locality, the stretch remains dilapidated because of the slow pace of execution.

The project has progressed at a sluggish pace, with work suspended at a few portions because of the rocky subsurface. As the presence of boulders impeded pipeline installation, certain stretches were skipped. Although the Corporation later decided to resort to chemical blasting to clear the obstructions, action has not been taken so far on the skipped portions.

Residents alleged that drinking water was contaminated after pipelines were damaged during the UGD work, a few months ago. At present, water continues to seep and stagnate on the work site, raising concerns over mosquito breeding and the possible spread of vector-borne diseases.

Apart from dug-up roads, uneven surfaces and potholes, protruding manhole covers pose a serious risk to motorists and pedestrians. Residents said negotiating the road had become difficult even on foot, particularly at night.

A section of residents alleged that while black topping is taken up on main roads in residential areas, interior roads continue to be neglected. They said repeated representations to the ward councillor and Corporation officials seeking relaying of the completed portions have failed to yield results.

“It has been several months since the road was dug up for UGD work, but it is yet to be relaid. Even a short spell of rain turns the stretch muddy and slippery, making it dangerous for road users,” said N. Thangavel, a resident.

A senior Corporation official said the delay was mainly due to challenges posed by the rocky subsurface and that efforts are on to employ chemical blasting. The work will be completed soon, and the damaged stretches will be relaid simultaneously.