Residents in Erode seek desilting of drainage channels ahead of monsoon

Residents in several parts of the city have urged the Erode Corporation to desilt and clear drainage channels choked with plastic waste and other garbage ahead of the northeast monsoon.

They said several drainage channels in residential areas were clogged with plastic covers, bottles and other non-biodegradable waste, obstructing the free flow of rainwater. With the monsoon expected to bring spells of heavy rain, residents said the clogged channels could lead to waterlogging on roads and in low-lying residential areas.

Residents said the problem had persisted despite periodic cleaning of the channels. In several places, plastic waste and silt had accumulated after being washed into the channels during previous spells of rain. They urged the civic body to undertake a comprehensive desilting exercise and remove the accumulated waste before the onset of the monsoon.