Chennai, Jan 27 (NationPress) Almost five years after Avadi was designated as a municipal corporation, the commitment to deliver comprehensive civic infrastructure remains unfulfilled for many of its inhabitants. Despite rapid urbanization and a growing population density, numerous neighborhoods are still without piped drinking water and an underground sewerage system, compelling the local authority to pursue additional funding to address ongoing deficiencies in essential services.

Covering an area of 65 sq km, Avadi Corporation has managed to extend piped water and sewer connections to merely 23 sq km.

In other regions, families rely on borewells, septic systems, and private water tankers, which escalates pressure on groundwater supplies and raises health and sanitation concerns. The disparity between urban growth and the enhancement of infrastructure has become one of the corporation's most significant issues.

As part of the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), water supply and sewage projects are currently in progress in Avadi, Paruthipattu, and Thirumullaivoyal. Civic officials suggest that with the release of further funds from the government, other areas within the corporation's jurisdiction, such as Annanur and Pattabiram, will likely gain access to regular piped water and enhanced sewage systems.

The underground drainage system is being constructed in phases, alongside efforts to identify and sever unauthorized sewage connections linked to stormwater drains.

Such illegal connections have been attributed to contamination and urban flooding, especially during the monsoon season.

Enforcement actions, including fines, are being planned to curb further infractions and maintain the integrity of the drainage system.

In addition to the proposed Rs 450 crore allocated for strengthening civic infrastructure, the corporation has submitted a separate proposal of Rs 552 crore for the establishment of a new sewage treatment facility. This project encompasses a main transmission pipeline designed to distribute treated water throughout all four zones and 48 wards, aimed at creating a cohesive and sustainable sewerage framework for the growing city.

Residents and consumer advocacy groups, however, continue to voice concerns regarding delays and the quality of execution.

Challenges such as the installation of narrow drainage pipes and the absence of visible progress despite substantial fees collected for water and sewage connections have contributed to public discontent.

As Avadi transitions from a suburban township to a robust urban center, the success of these proposed initiatives will be vital in determining whether the corporation can ultimately ensure equitable access to fundamental civic services for all.