Inhabitants of Egambaram Nagar in Mylapore are living in constant fear of contracting the vector borne disease. “Several deaths have occurred in the locality, alleged Mr Natarajan, a resident.
“Our lives have been affected especially by mosquitoes and flies swarming around our food,” he added.
It’s a nightmarish experience for the slum dwellers, who wake up daily with the loud thud of the earthmover in the neighbouring site.
Even as the locals complained that corporation officials hardly visited the area, local councillor R. Boomi, of Ward 125 denied the allegation and asserted that health officials regularly visited the zone for conduct health check-ups.
Several demonstrations and representations to shift the transfer station have proved futile, said Raji, resident of Meenambalpuram adding, “People from other areas are reluctant to give their daughters in marriage to someone who lives in Egambaram Nagar, as the place is uninhabitable.”
When contacted, a senior Corporation official said that instructions were given to Ramky to clear nearly 700 tonnes of garbage generated post Cyclone Nilam from the site by November 10. There has, however been a delay on their part.