Urgent Warning: Clogged Pazhavangadi Canal in Thiruvananthapuram Poses a Serious Threat to Residents!
Residents of the Vallakadavu and Sreevaraham areas in Thiruvananthapuram are facing severe health risks as a result of the heavily polluted Pazhavangadi canal. This crucial waterway, particularly the stretch from Kothalam Bridge to Sreevaraham Bridge, is marred by the presence of slaughter waste and accumulated garbage, contributing to the spread of contagious diseases in the community.
Despite the urgent need for remediation efforts, the local city corporation and the major irrigation department have yet to initiate any cleaning activities ahead of the sweltering summer months. Recent rains, particularly following the Attukal Pongala festival, have exacerbated the situation, flooding numerous homes with contaminated water and debris from the overflowing canal.
Illegal dumping has significantly worsened the conditions, with residents observing that, despite the canal being fenced off, large amounts of waste are still being discarded into its waters. Vallakadavu ward councillor Shajida Nazar voiced her concerns, stating, “We have raised the issue with the authorities many times. Even recently, after the flooding, we took it up with the corporation and the relevant departments, but no action has been taken yet.” She highlighted that tonnes of waste have accumulated under the bridges, further contributing to local flooding and sanitation issues.
Residents report that, for the first time, no cleanup efforts took place this year prior to Pongala, an important festival in the region. Manoj L, a local inhabitant, lamented, “Every year before Pongala, the corporation removes garbage from this area — which is a hotspot for waste accumulation. This year, nothing has happened, and the residents are suffering from contagious diseases like dengue and chikungunya.” The mosquito population in the area has surged, leading to a spike in illnesses, with many residents falling ill with fever and dengue.
The lack of action and inadequate infrastructure to address these persistent issues have left the community vulnerable and frustrated. As the summer heat intensifies, residents are calling for immediate intervention from city officials to protect public health and enhance sanitation efforts in the area. The situation demands urgent action to prevent further health crises and improve living conditions in Vallakadavu and Sreevaraham.
Local authorities must prioritize the cleanup of the Pazhavangadi canal and bolster waste management practices to safeguard the community. Without decisive action, the health of residents will remain at serious risk, highlighting the need for sustainable environmental practices and responsible waste management in Thiruvananthapuram.
Original Source: https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2026/Mar/22/clogged-pazhavangadi-canal-in-thiruvananthapuram-a-threat-for-residents
Category :
Tags:
Publish Date: 2026-03-22 10:33:00
