At least 36 homes in Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board(TNUHDB) tenements in Kannagi Nagar face structural danger because trenches dug to build a social welfare centre four months ago are now filled with sewage. Residents say the foundations pillars of the apartment buildings are exposed and the walls have developed fissures.
Ward councillor Aswini Karuna said the sewage line for the entire block was ruptured when excavating to lay the foundation for the welfare centre four months ago. Now, according to the government, fixing the problem would cost about 55 lakh.
Local resident Revathi said that because of the excavation sewage entered her home, and the power connection was affected. Her mixer and grinder often malfunctioned. She accused the authorities of indifference.
The locals want a concrete cover over the excavated pit, saying they cannot live in constant fear.
They also want the government to check the cracks in the houses and ensure structural stability.Venessa, a social activist, said that the TNUHDB should allay the concerns of the public about the stability of their homes that were constructed in 2006. Work on the 1.25crore welfare centre began four months ago, but stalled after the trenches flooded.
TNUHDB executive engineer Sivasankaran promised to take action to ensure safety.