Chennai, Aug 9 (NationPress) In a significant move towards upgrading urban infrastructure and addressing long-standing sewage challenges in the city's northern regions, the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (Metrowater) has unveiled its plans to overhaul the existing 40-year-old sewer system in crucial localities.

The ambitious project, with an investment of Rs 946 crore, is part of the Vada Chennai Valarchi Thittam initiative and aims to replace a total of 213 km of sewer lines, significantly benefiting over 2 million residents in areas including Royapuram, Tondiarpet, and Thiru Vi Ka Nagar.

The current sewer pipes, many of which suffer from issues like reverse flow, blockages, and frequent damage, will be substituted with larger-diameter pipes designed to accommodate greater sewage volumes.

The primary pipelines will increase from a width of 200 mm to 400 mm. Metrowater has tasked Sai Engineering Consultants with developing detailed project designs, with work expected to commence shortly.

According to Metrowater Managing Director T.G. Vinay, the project will also incorporate odour control systems at sewage treatment facilities, along with the installation of 126 new pump sets and 41 diesel generators to expedite sewage flow.

“We will establish between 200 and 500 new machine holes in each area to facilitate easier access for maintenance. Additional sewage pumping stations will be set up in Kolathur and Villivakkam to tackle reverse flow complaints,” he stated. The project is scheduled for completion by June 2026, although some work has already begun.

Dr. Radhakrishnan Nagar MLA J.J. Ebenzer praised the initiative but raised concerns regarding financial allocations.

“Approximately 40 percent of the estimated budget is allocated for RK Nagar, which may not be adequate. We also need to address Kasimedu and Tondiarpet, where pipelines exceed 30 years of age. Old, rusted pipes frequently fail, leading to road sinkage,” he remarked.

Royapuram MLA Idream Murthy indicated that six projects have been authorized for his area.

“We are in the process of replacing sewer lines along several bus routes, including Mint, Cemetery Road, and Old Washermenpet. The work is being conducted in phases to minimize public disruption. Following government directives, no digging will occur after September 15, so we aim to complete 50 percent of the pipeline work before that deadline, with remaining tasks resuming after January,” he explained.

Metrowater officials are optimistic that the upgraded sewer system will greatly enhance sewage flow and reduce maintenance issues, representing a significant advancement in modernizing the city’s essential infrastructure.