Sewer overflow raises stink in Begumpur

Rain or no rain, waterlogging has become a norm for the residents of Begumpur, near Sarvapriya Vihar in plush south Delhi, because of faulty sewer and water lines.Nivedita Khandekar reports.

Rain or no rain, waterlogging has become a norm for the residents of Begumpur, near Sarvapriya Vihar in plush south Delhi, because of faulty sewer and water lines.

HT Image

Sewer mixed with water forms large pool on the narrow road snaking through Begumpur, right in front of an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)-protected monument, Begumpur Mosque.

It results in trouble for commuters from Panchsheel Enclave and Sarvapriya Vihar in reaching Malviya Nagar.

It has been almost six months that residents have faced waterlogging every morning. Though it subsides in a few hours persistent waterlogging has damaged the road.

"About six years ago, the sewer line was replaced, but in a faulty manner and it results in leaks daily," said RD Sharma, a resident of Begumpur. The medieval village of 5,000-odd population has now turned into a modern hub.

Raghuvir Chaudhary said the residents have approached DJB officials but to no avail. "Even the elected representatives from the area have given us assurances but no result," said RC Sharma, another resident.

And the problem is not restricted to the pipeline network in the village. "The sewage outflow pipeline is at a lower level where it meets the main trunk sewer at Malviya Nagar main road," claimed Karn Chaudhary.

"They charge service charge which totals to as much as 300 per cent ... for what? We are now going to approach both the Delhi High Court and the consumer court," said AK Pal.

When HT approached DJB on Thursday morning, an official said, "We will get back to you." However, despite repeated reminders since Thursday evening, the DJB officials did not respond.