Sewage overflows and water contamination are no longer confined to the city’s suburbs. Even core areas within Chennai Corporation grapple with these problems. In Virugambakkam and Korattur, areas such as Pandiyan Street, L&T Colony, Swarnambigai Nagar, and Srinivasapuram report sewage leaks contaminating drinking water pipelines and sewage flowing in stormwater drains.

“The drinking water stinks and often appears black. I accidentally consumed some and suffered severe diarrhoea and stomach pain,” said Dr Mahesh, a senior citizen in L&T Colony. Rain worsens the issue, with sewage entering homes. Residents also say that they spend 30-35 daily on drinking water, and that even water used for washing clothes smells foul.

In Korattur, TOI saw a tractor-trailer with a motor was pumping sewage from a manhole into stormwater drains in wards 83 and 84 in Zone 7. “Stormwater drains connect to lakes and ponds, risking widespread pollution,” said resident-activist Sekharan. An analysis by the TNPCB of water and topsoil samples collected in and around the Korattur lake confirmed high levels of heavy metals such as chromium, zinc, copper, and lead.

Swarnambigai Nagar, housing over 150 families, is plagued by a broken three-decade-old sewage line that serves Pandiyan Street and L&T Colony. A motor illegally pumps sewage into stormwater drains, clogging them and causing rainwater to mix with sewage during the rains. “This has led to foul smell, increased mosquito breeding, and serious health risks,” said resident Shiva Kumar.
Officials have acknowledged the problem. Virugambakkam ward 128 depot assistant engineer C Aldrin Durai confirmed sewage was pumped into stormwater drains during rain and promised corrective action. Metrowater managing director T G Vinay promised an inquiry and measures to prevent sewage discharge into stormwater drains.