Residents living around Palakkarai and neighbouring localities in Tiruchi have raised concerns over the continued discharge of untreated sewage into the Uyyakondan Canal, particularly along the stretch near the Palakkarai bridge.

The canal, which flows through the city, has been subjected to extensive pollution over the past few decades with sewage from several commercial establishments and residential buildings being let directly into the canal at nearly 32 points along the 15-km stretch in city.

According to residents, waste from storm-water drains and household outlets carrying untreated sewage enters the canal at multiple locations, turning what was once a vital irrigation channel into a heavily contaminated drain.

The stench emanating from the polluted water and the proliferation of mosquitoes have become daily concerns for commuters, shopkeepers, and families residing nearby. “It is unpleasant and affecting our daily life,” said Bhaskar, a resident, pointing to the persistent foul odour in the area.

Environmental activists have called for continuous monitoring and strict enforcement to prevent untreated sewage from flowing into the canal. “The authorities should identify and seal pipelines and outlets that directly release wastewater into the canal and take steps to ensure that the sewage is treated before being discharged,” said K.C. Neelamegam, an activist.

Meanwhile, the civic body has taken steps to permanently plug wastewater entry points in Cantonment and Bheema Nagar areas where the discharge is reportedly high. Plans are under consideration to set up sewage treatment plants along the banks of the canal as part of efforts to restore the waterway.

With the underground drainage (UGD) project in the commissioning stage, civic officials said that wastewater discharged through open drains would soon be diverted into the sewage network instead of flowing into the canal. The Corporation expects that the commissioning of the ongoing UGD projects will significantly reduce pollution caused by sewage discharge into the waterbody.