Residents call for cleaning of Kiruthumal channels

Madurai: The Kiruthumal channels, running through Madurai, once supported the Vaigai river in providing water to residents of the city. But those days are long gone, as the water has become polluted with sewage and waste.People living near the channels are struggling because of the horrible stench from piles of waste that has blocked the water from moving in the river. The stagnant water has also become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, posing a health hazard.R Rajavetrivel, a vendor in MK Puram, said it is difficult to walk outside in the evenings or even keep the doors open because of mosquitoes. “Meat waste is also being dumped into the channel by butcher shops in the area, adding to the terrible stench,” he said.At Ellis Nagar and near Bypass Road, waste including single-use plastic bags and water bottles block the water from flowing. Residents urged officials to clear the waste immediately and desilt the channel.A senior corporation official said they have asked the PWD to clear waste and desilt all key water channels in the city. “We are aiming to complete work by the end of July,” the official said.