Residents of Cauvery Nagar in Tiruchi have sought suspension of the underground drainage (UGD) work being executed by the Tiruchi Corporation in their locality pending an inquiry, citing concerns over construction quality and the proposed location of a pumping station.

The work is being implemented in Ward no. 56 under Phase IV of the UGD project.

In a petition to the Chief Minister’s Special Cell, the residents questioned the construction of the pumping station on land earmarked for a public park and alleged that the site fell within the buffer zone of a flood carrier channel. They sought verification of the land classification, project approvals, and compliance with applicable planning and environmental regulations.

They expressed concern over the potential impact of the proposed pumping station. “The pumping station’s proximity to the flood carrier channel raises concerns over its impact on natural drainage and the risk of flooding in the surrounding residential areas during heavy rain,” said K. Swaminathan, a resident of the area.

The residents urged the authorities to verify the site’s compliance with applicable Supreme Court and National Green Tribunal orders and directions concerning waterbodies. They sought an assessment of the potential risk of flooding, sewage overflow, and groundwater contamination.

The residents raised concerns over the quality of precast manholes being installed as part of the UGD work. They called for independent testing of the material and a technical audit to ascertain whether the work conformed to the sanctioned designs, technical specifications, and estimates. “Multiple representations have been submitted to the authorities, but the Corporation has not taken any action or conducted an inspection so far,” Mr. Swaminathan added.

A senior Corporation official said the UGD work was being implemented based on a detailed project report prepared after an inspection of the site. “There is less chance of flooding. However, we will review the site in the light of concerns raised by the residents and take steps,” the official said.