A significant drainage pipe leak on Krishnavilasam Road in Vazhuthacaud, Thiruvananthapuram, has triggered serious health and sanitation concerns among residents. Since Tuesday morning, untreated sewage has been reportedly flowing onto the road continuously for the past five days, creating an unbearable environment for locals.
Location and Impact
The leak is situated barely 50 meters from the private residence of the state's home minister, drawing criticism over what residents describe as official apathy despite repeated complaints. Foul-smelling wastewater has inundated parts of this busy stretch, affecting hundreds of students, employees, and pedestrians who use the route daily. The road houses several private educational institutions, offices, and commercial establishments.
Health and Safety Risks
According to locals, pedestrians are forced to walk through the contaminated water, while vehicles passing by frequently splash muddy sewage onto walkers. Residents warn that the stagnant wastewater could become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, posing a serious public health risk. The situation highlights recurring complaints about aging drainage and water infrastructure in the capital city. Vazhuthacaud and adjoining areas have experienced repeated pipeline leaks and drainage-related issues in recent years, leading to waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and sanitation concerns.
Residents' Frustration
Residents alleged that complaints were lodged multiple times with the city corporation and other concerned departments, but no effective action has been taken so far. M Harisankar, a resident, stated, "The stench has become unbearable, and the sewage is flowing across the road throughout the day. We have informed the authorities repeatedly, but nobody has come to resolve the issue." Frustrated by the continued inaction, local people are now planning a protest demanding immediate repair of the damaged drainage line and a long-term solution to recurring infrastructure failures in the area.
Official Response
According to corporation health standing committee chairperson M R Gopan, the issue falls under the responsibility of the Kerala Water Authority (KWA), which has been informed to fix it. Meanwhile, a KWA official confirmed that workers would be deployed soon to repair the drainage pipelines, and the issue is expected to be resolved within 24 hours.
