Residents of Ward 86 in Coimbatore staged a protest demanding the removal of a sewage farm, garbage dump, and dog sterilization center, while also calling for basic infrastructure improvements in their area.
Coimbatore: Residents of Ward 86 in Coimbatore staged a protest near the sewage farm in the South Ukkadam area, demanding the removal of waste management facilities and the provision of basic amenities.
The demonstrators raised slogans highlighting their demands, which include the relocation of a sewage farm, garbage dump, and dog sterilization center from their locality.
Nasser, a resident of Ward 86, stated, "For the past 10 years, we have been continuously petitioning the District Collector and Corporation Commissioner to remove the sewage farm, garbage dump, and dog sterilization center from our area. We have also been requesting basic infrastructure like roads and underground drainage. The authorities only provide temporary solutions without taking steps for permanent resolutions."
He further explained, "About 600 lorries dump sewage in the farm daily, leading to severe health issues. Our ward has the highest number of hospitals and pharmacies due to the excessive disease outbreaks. Recently, a urinary catheter bag fell from a garbage truck onto the road. These vehicles constantly leak sewage as they pass through our area, causing skin diseases to us and our children."
Nasser added, "After numerous protests, the dog sterilization center was removed but has now resumed operations. They release sterilized street dogs in our locality. We pay the same taxes as residents of R.S. Puram and Race Course areas, but why do we have to live amidst garbage while they enjoy luxurious lifestyles? Either provide us with the same living conditions or move this garbage dump to R.S. Puram."
Shaira Mujibur Rahman, another resident, mentioned, "We receive water supply only once in 40 days, forcing us to consume contaminated water. The health department doesn't even conduct inspections regarding this issue. We also suffer greatly from the stray dog menace."
The residents expressed their anguish, stating that their area feels non-existent, like Athipatti, which is not even on the world map. After discussions with the police, the protesters dispersed.