Unfinished drainage work leads to overflowing sewage, mosquito infestations, and finger-pointing between BWSSB and BBMP
Residents of Gottigere and the adjacent areas have been in distress since the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) began installing underground drainage (UGD) pipes last year. The construction is still not completed, and the delay has resulted in sewage being released into drains, causing mosquito outbreaks and foul odours.
Residents are requesting the government to take prompt action to complete the job. They demanded that authorities ensure adequate disposal of waste and take measures to prevent sewage from entering roadside drains near their homes.
Bharatha Gowda, a Gottigere resident, stated that despite lodging complaints with BWSSB officials last year, no action has been taken to address the issue. Initially, sewage was directed to an open plot nearby, but since the drains were closed to enable the laying of UGD pipes, the sewage has been accumulating around homes, causing health issues, compelling residents to keep their children indoors due to unhealthy conditions.
Sewage over-flowing in Gottigere
Pradeep Kuchhangi, a BWSSB engineer said, “The delay in the project has caused due to communication issues between major stakeholders like BBMP, lake departments etc. Since this project needs a lot of planning everyone needs to be onboard with it.”
Kuchhangi further added, “The project is 90 per cent completed, we are adding the lateral collection system which will connect from their houses and disperse the sewage to sewage area, we are also installing pumping stations.”
Bhuvan Kumar, a Begur resident, said that roadside drains designed to transport rain water to the nearest storm water drain are clogged with debris and silt. “The authorities are not ensuring that the drains are cleaned on a regular basis. This is causing a bad odour and the place has become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.” Bhuvan said.
Kuchhangi, stated that the UGD work has been ongoing since last year and will be completed by end of April. “Some of the houses do not have a UGD connection. Putting sewage into roadside drains is against the rules. I expect the UGD works to be finished as scheduled.” Kuchhangi added.
Srikanth, BBMP assistant executive engineer said, “BBMP workers are actively addressing issues in Gottigere and its vicinity. They are committed to cleaning clogged drains upon residents’ complaints,” he said, adding that they had received multiple complaints and were working on resolving them.
Vikram Bhatt, Urban Planner said, “Addressing the sewage leakage and drainage issues in Gottigere requires immediate action and collaboration between BWSSB and BBMP. Implementing a strict timeline for UGD completion, regular drain cleaning, and waste disposal management is crucial. Additionally, community involvement and transparent communication are essential to ensure sustainable solutions and a healthier living environment for residents.”
