Avadi's Persistent Civic Challenges: Five Years After Corporation Status
Despite being upgraded to a municipal corporation five years ago, Avadi continues to grapple with significant deficiencies in basic civic amenities. A substantial portion of the area remains without access to essential services, highlighting ongoing infrastructure gaps that affect daily life for residents.
Critical Shortages in Water and Sewage Infrastructure
Currently, only 23 square kilometers out of Avadi's total 65 square kilometer area benefit from piped drinking water supply and proper sewage facilities. This means nearly one-third of the corporation's jurisdiction lacks these fundamental services. Most neighborhoods still depend heavily on alternative sources such as borewells, septic tanks, and private water suppliers to meet their daily needs.
The civic body has proposed an additional investment of ₹450 crore specifically aimed at improving this critical infrastructure. This funding is intended to address the longstanding gaps and enhance the quality of life for Avadi's residents.
Ongoing Projects and Government Initiatives
Officials have confirmed that water supply and sewage works are currently underway in several areas including Avadi, Paruthipattu, and Thirumullaivoyal under the AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation) scheme. Once the necessary funds are released by the government, other localities such as Annanur and Pattabiram within the corporation limits are expected to receive regular water supply.
Avadi Corporation Commissioner R Saranya provided updates on the progress, stating, "Underground drainage system (UGDS) work is currently in progress. The corporation is actively identifying and removing unauthorized sewage links connected to stormwater drain lines. A fine of ₹25,000 will be imposed on violators to ensure compliance."
Major Proposals for Future Development
In a significant move to address the sewage treatment challenges, a ₹552 crore proposal has been submitted for establishing a new sewage treatment plant. This project includes the installation of a main pipeline that will facilitate water supply to all four zones and 48 wards under the corporation's jurisdiction. This ambitious plan aims to create a more sustainable and efficient civic infrastructure system.
Resident Concerns and Consumer Advocacy
However, residents and consumer welfare associations have expressed serious concerns about the current state of affairs. T Sadagopan, President of the TN Progressive Consumer Welfare Association, highlighted technical issues, noting, "In many wards, drainage lines were laid using three-inch PVC pipes. In the long run, this inadequate sizing is likely to cause bursts and operational failures." He further revealed that residents have collectively paid more than ₹2.46 crore in deposits for sewage and drinking water connections.
Adding to the frustration, J Jayakumar, General Secretary of the TN Progressive Consumer Centre, shared his personal experience, stating he paid deposits for sewage and water connections back in 2008 but has yet to receive the promised services. He criticized the poor communication from the corporation and the minimal progress visible on the ground, reflecting broader dissatisfaction among Avadi's citizens.
The situation in Avadi Corporation underscores the challenges of urban infrastructure development in rapidly growing areas. While proposals and plans are in place, effective implementation and timely execution remain crucial to bridging the civic amenity gaps that have persisted for half a decade since the corporation's formation.
