stormwater drain meant to carry rainwater has turned into a channel for sewage in Judge Colony, a quiet residential enclave in Tambaram Sanatorium, triggering concerns over public health, environmental degradation and groundwater contamination.

Residents of the locality, which falls under Ward 34, Zone 3 of Tambaram Corporation, allege that excess sewage from a State government-run working women’s hostel is being discharged into the stormwater drain along Second Main Road. The practice, they say, has resulted in stagnant sewage, foul smell and serious health risks in an otherwise pleasant neighbourhood.

Judge Colony, home to more than 1,000 residents including retired judges, government officials and professionals, also houses a working women’s hostel, a school and a care centre for persons with disabilities.

Groundwater concerns

According to S.M. Govindarajan, founder-president of the United Federation of Residents’ Welfare Associations under Tambaram Corporation, said the stormwater drain was constructed to channel excess rainwater from GST Road near the TB Hospital towards the eastern side. However, a technical issue in the alignment of a railway box culvert has impeded the flow of water. While the consequent water stagnation on GST Road is a separate concern, the drain in Judge Colony now largely carries sewage discharged from nearby establishments.

The sewage stagnates at several locations due to the absence of adequate flow, resulting in foul odour, mosquito breeding and fears of groundwater contamination. “What was conceived as a stormwater drain has virtually become a sewage channel,” Govindarajan alleged.

Geetha, a homemaker, said the quality of groundwater had deteriorated considerably. “The water drawn from borewells and open wells has turned dark. Many families are forced to purchase drinking water,” she said. Neeraja, another resident, said the stagnant sewage near her residence had become a persistent problem. “Infrequent desilting worsens the situation. The stagnant water also affects electrical appliances,” she said.

Residents pointed out that despite the widespread use of reverse osmosis systems, groundwater in several houses remains unfit for consumption because of suspected contamination.

The issue has gained significance as several parts of Tambaram Sanatorium, Chitlapakkam and neighbouring localities are yet to be covered by an underground drainage network.

Security concerns

Residents also highlighted security issues along the stretch. According to them, several CCTV cameras installed along the storm water drain have become defunct.

“Visitors to the women’s hostel frequently use this road. Considering safety concerns, the damaged cameras should be restored and monitoring strengthened,” said Ramaswamy, a retired Deputy Collector.

Residents seek action

Calling for immediate intervention, Govindarajan urged the authorities to prevent sewage from entering the stormwater drain and insisted that the hostel install a sewage treatment plant (STP).

“When gated communities are required to treat and manage sewage, institutions accommodating hundreds of residents should also have adequate treatment facilities,” he said.

When contacted, Tambaram Corporation Commissioner S. Balachandran said complaints had been received regarding the discharge of excess sewage from the women’s hostel and a few commercial establishments in the area.

“We have ordered desilting of the storm water drain as an immediate measure. Instructions have also been given to identify and block sewage discharge points,” he said.

Residents, many of whom are long-time taxpayers in the Corporation limits, said they hoped the issue would be resolved before the environmental damage becomes irreversible.