Hyderabad: Residents of Yellareddyguda, about 200 metres from the prominent Maitrivanam in Ameerpet, are raising a stink over frequent incidents of sewage overflow.
Although the problem has persisted for over a year, a lasting solution has not been found yet. In fact, the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply & Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) recently completed a 180-day initiative to repair broken manholes and sewer lines.
Residents lamented that despite such efforts, the situation has hardly improved and they complain that they continue to face daily challenges with unpleasant odours.
“We have been complaining regularly for the past year. The road is often flooded with sewage. Despite regular cleaning, the problem persists. The authorities need to carry out a thorough inspection of the pipes to identify the cause. A permanent solution with infrastructure upgrades and regular maintenance would prevent future occurrences,” said a resident of Vijaya Towers in Ameerpet.
Another resident, Mani Rao, said even though the vacuum tankers patrol the area, they continue to witness sewage spilling onto the streets.
Vendors also complained that their business was being affected by sewage overflow.
An official of the HMWSSB said since the pipeline is 50 years old, it has become difficult to identify leakages from hairline cracks. “We have stopped water supply to Vijaya Towers, where the problem originated, and are providing free water tankers. We are carrying out regular desilting operations to remove accumulated waste. If situation persists, we intend to replace about 70-100m of pipeline,” the official added.