Chennai, Feb 5 (NationPress) The escalating sewage crisis at the Velachery Lake inlet adjacent to Shastri Nagar in Adambakkam has residents grappling with foul odors, contaminated groundwater, and a significant uptick in mosquito-borne diseases, as civic authorities continue to deflect accountability for halting the pollution.

Untreated sewage flowing through a storm water drain (SWD) has progressively converted the previously pristine section of the lake into a stagnant and hazardous area, raising alarming concerns regarding environmental degradation and public health.

The community, situated across the inlet near Kakkan Bridge, has experienced a gradual decline in living standards over the last few years.

A dense growth of water hyacinth now covers the water's surface, while sludge has accumulated near the drain's entry point.

Residents express that the deterioration has been swift and profoundly distressing for families residing along the lakefront.

K. Ramesh, a long-time resident, remarked on the stark changes: “A few years ago, the water was clear, and we often spotted birds like herons and ducks. Now, there is a persistent smell of sewage, making it unbearable to go outside.”

Numerous households report that their borewell water has become unusable, leading to a surge in mosquito breeding.

“Our children frequently fall ill with fevers and skin infections. We are now compelled to purchase water and incur additional medical expenses. The drain, intended for rainwater, is now carrying sewage,” shared V. Lakshmi, another resident.

The issue reportedly worsened after the Greater Chennai Corporation constructed the SWD along City Link Road to mitigate monsoon flooding.

While this initiative reduced flooding, residents allege that illegal sewage connections from nearby areas soon began dumping waste directly into the drain, affecting nearly 13 surrounding localities.

“Thick sludge extends for several meters near the inlet, and the lake is completely overrun by hyacinth. The pollution is evident to anyone who looks,” stated M. Pradeep, a member of the local residents’ welfare association.

The Water Resources Department, responsible for maintaining the lake, claims to have invested around ₹25 lakh in removing invasive plants and has persistently urged the GCC to sever illegal sewage connections.

Officials from the GCC cite capacity limitations at the Depot 161 pumping station, while Metro Water representatives deny any instances of overflow or diversion. With various departments shifting blame, residents assert they continue to suffer the consequences and are calling for immediate, coordinated action to halt the discharge and rejuvenate Velachery Lake.

aal/rad