Sat Nov 02 14:43:31 UTC 2024: ## Sewage Backflow Floods Homes in Madurai, Raising Health Concerns
**Madurai, November 2, 2024:** Following recent heavy rains in Madurai, residents of VOC Nagar Second Street near Meenakshipuram are grappling with a serious public health issue: sewage water backing up into their homes. While the Corporation has successfully drained rainwater from the streets, clogged underground drainage systems (UGDs) are causing sewage to overflow, leading to a crisis.
Residents like J. Jhansi report sewage water entering their homes for the first time, raising concerns about the health of families, especially those with children. The presence of faecal matter in the water has led to skin allergies and rashes among residents.
K. Vasanthi, a widow who supports her granddaughter by selling dosa and idli batter, is facing a difficult situation as customers are hesitant to buy from her due to the unhygienic conditions in her home. The loss of income has put her in a precarious position.
J. Leo Prakash, a local resident, notes that the Corporation attempted a temporary solution two weeks ago, but the problem has recurred. Councillor K. Murali Ganesh of Ward 25 attributes the problem to improper waste disposal by residents, including clothes, sanitary napkins, and vegetable waste being thrown into the sewage lines. He also points out the increasing population in the area has put a strain on the 18-year-old UGD system, which was built for a much smaller population.
While the Corporation is working on clearing the UGD lines, the narrow roads in the area prevent the use of sucker vehicles for removing the clogging. The Corporation plans to utilize thick rope-like material to clear the UGD way.
Residents and the Corporation are urging residents to cooperate and dispose of waste responsibly to prevent further sewage backflow and address this public health crisis.
First Piper 