A sewage crisis at the Velachery Lake inlet near Shastri Nagar in Adambakkam has led to foul odors, contaminated groundwater, and a surge in mosquito-borne diseases, causing distress among residents. The untreated sewage flowing through a stormwater drain has transformed the once-clean lake area into an unhealthy environment, raising concerns about public health and environmental damage. The neighborhood near Kakkan Bridge has seen a decline in living conditions with water hyacinth growth and sludge deposits affecting the surroundings.
Residents living along the lakefront express deep distress over the rapid deterioration of the area, noting the stark contrast from the clean environment of the past. Many households are facing unusable borewell water and increased mosquito breeding, leading to health issues among children and additional expenses for water and treatment. The problem escalated after the construction of a stormwater drain by the Greater Chennai Corporation, with illegal sewage connections from nearby areas worsening the pollution, affecting nearly 13 localities.
The Water Resources Department has addressed the issue by removing invasive vegetation and urging the GCC to disconnect illegal sewage lines, but challenges remain due to capacity constraints at the pumping station and conflicting statements from authorities. Residents are demanding immediate, coordinated efforts to halt the discharge and restore the health of Velachery Lake, as agencies continue to shift responsibility for the contamination.
