BANGALORE: The Bangalore Bruhut Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) seems to be in no mood to learn lessons from its mistakes. Despite many incidents of people being washed away in open drains flooded with rain water, the authorities concerned have done little to improve the living conditions of the city-dwellers.
Like most areas, newly-created Gangenahalli ward has a major sewage and drainage problem compounded by open drains. The storm water drain that run close to many houses in the ward is posing a grave threat to the residents here.
The drain near Gem’s school is lying uncovered for a very long period. The open drain that stretches to around 3 to 4 km without fencing still remains unnoticed by the authorities.
The open drains are rarely cleaned and cleared. They are filled with silt and vegetation, preventing free flow of wastewater, the residents complain. “We are troubled with the foul smell and dirt but we cannot do much about it. The drains act as an open dustbin for many who throw their waste directly in it. The drain, which is harmful for the people living around, also destroys the beauty of the surroundings. Walking on the side becomes very difficult. When it rains, the situation worsens as the entire water spill over to the roads,” says a resident.
At present, the entire drain is full of sludge and sewage. A portion of the drain has been encroached by residents. Since there is no fencing on one side, there is a danger of children falling into the drain. During rainy season, stink emanating from the open drain make the place a living hell.
Like any other wards, Ganganehalli is plagued with a number of problems. The most visible of them is the unavailability of drinking water.
“Drinking water supply is also inadequate, as a number of borewells have gone dry. We get water once in three days only. Despite collecting betterment fee and property tax, the authorities concerned have failed to deliver the goods. We are fed up with the attitude of the officials, who often turn a blind eye to our issues despite many complaints. The BBMP has to do something to ensure uninterrupted water supply,” Nagaraj, who runs a workshop in RT Nagar.
Encroachment of main roads by commercial and residential buildings has been the main problem in many of the places. The main road is a good example of such encroachments where traffic comes to a standstill during peak hours.
However, Ammayamma, housewife residing at 5th Cross, is happy with the improved facilities in her area. According to her, garbage is being collected on a regular basis.
“The authorities have taken up many development works to make this a better place to live in. Roads are in good condition, though frequent rains create chaos,” she added.
Corporator Nagaraja was not available for comment.