Residents of Ward 64 in Kolathur are grappling with a host of problems apart from the common civic issues that bother the city. Lack of safety and security, low voltage and mosquito breeding are some of the issues that the residents would like the civic body officials to address.
S. Ravindran, a businessman and resident of Yamuna Nagar said that incidents of theft have become a routine affair in his locality. A few days ago, his two bicycles were stolen. “They were parked at the entrance of the home and were stolen. I have given a written complaint to the police,” he said and added this neighbour had also lost his motorcycle recently.
“Despite several complaints to the police as well as the local authorities, there is still no proper police patrol or security here. One cannot even step out of the house in peace. Even if we have one member to stay at home it still dangerous,” complained T. Sujatha, a homemaker.
Residents also complained of the low voltage electricity supply in the area especially during night hours. Perumal Kumar, a shopkeeper and resident of Anjugam Nagar said, “Night time is when we can’t do without power. But we don’t even get enough to keep one air conditioner running. It has been more than five years since I moved here and the situation still remains the same. Interestingly, the electricity supply is better in the mornings.”
C. Siva, another resident pointed out to a stormwater drain under construction which has become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. “This place was dug up to build a stormwater drain that could connect the pond next to it. But the work has been going on at a snail’s pace and is increasing only the mosquito population,” he said.
Local authorities on the other hand said they were currently in the process of draining the water from the two ponds in Haridoss Nagar and Yamuna Nagar and redesign them. “The ponds were in a bad shape and we wanted to save them. We have decided to create a garden around the pond as well as a play area,” said the area engineer.
The official added that they had taken cognisance of all the grievances and were working towards resolving them. “We have discussed the issue with the local police and they have started to go on frequent patrols. We are doing the best we can to provide a safe environment to residents,” the official said.
