PCMC plugs the lapse after residents get drain water for two months

A team of PCMC officials, who had remained oblivious of the complaints by residents for two months, landed on the spot and spent a considerable amount of time trying to locate the source of the problem. By Thursday afternoon, the problem was located and three drainage chambers were repaired, thereby ensuring that residents get potable water.

PCMC executive engineer Pravin Ladkat said the water was provided by PCMC from its sewage treatment plant to the Army Lake set up in Kasarwadi area. “We located the source of water that was gushing out of the drainage chamber. It was indeed a serious problem,” he said.

Initially, the residents thought they were getting turbid water because of retreating rains that had flooded the roads, nullahs and had the Pavana river overflowing. Though the rains disappeared, the residents continued to get the ‘dirty’ water. It was then that the local rickshaw drivers first noticed the overflowing drainage chamber, brought to the notice of PCMC employees who have an office in Kasarwadi.

“Whenever the employees or officials were on rounds, we complained to them. Actually, there was no reason for us to complain. The force of water had increased so much that it was very visible to all. Yet, local employees paid no heed. A part of Parshwanath Society Road was also getting affected due to dirty water,” said Sokat Shaikh, a local resident. Another resident, Jayshree Marale, said, “The way PCMC works is shocking. Unless several people agitate, PCMC will not do anything. Though the road was getting filled up with drainage water, no official or employee of PCMC found anything amiss,” she said.

Senior PCMC officials said they too were shocked to learn that the local unit did not report the matter to the headquarters quickly. “It was a serious matter and they should have reported to us. Whether it is about potholes or overflowing drainage chambers, the local officials are supposed to update us,” he said.

Asked to comment, Commissioner Waghmare said he will take action against the employees or officials at Kasarwadi office, who remained apathetic to the problem.