In the same condition for many years

BANGALORE: Infant Jesus church,  located in Neelasandra,  is a well-known landmark.  It is said to be visited by travelers from all over India. The church has its own reputation among worshippers. Just metres away from the church lies an open drain in Austin Town, East Bangalore. The road above the drain links Vanarpet to Neelasandra. The stench emanating form this drain had been a cause for concern among the residents of the area for many years now.Right next to the drain in Neelasandra, lies a heap of garbage. Flies are often seen swarming around the drain and the garbage.  The stench exuding from the garbage is unbearable. Mosquitoes are a severe cause of worry as well. The authorities say it is not their fault as the garbage is cleared every morning and despite requests to the residents to not dump it in the drain, they do so. Vinod Kumar, a resident, said, “In spite of complaining to the authorities no action has been taken. The drain is in a pathetic state due to which children are routinely affected with diseases such as dengue, chicken-guinea, viral fever, and food poisoning. My daughter, Pushpalatha, was recently diagnosed with dengue fever. Also a rag picker while scrounging the garbage for food died of electric shock. If this isn’t cleaned up soon, such incidents are going to continue.”Michael Raj, another resident said, “Authorities’ are disregarding the severe problems which can be caused by the drain. They do no live here. They do not go through what we go through everyday. Sarathunnisa, secretary of the Austin Town Resident’s Association informed City Express that the drain needs to be cleaned up immediately. Her daughter in law, Noor Zaiba, has suffered from dengue fever.  Shanthi (name changed) said, “People falling sick is becoming a routine thing here. Chambers are often seen overflowing. The drainage water enters our houses. The corporator visit every two months. They observe the surroundings , sprinkle bleaching powder and then leave. It may work for a few days but is not a permanently solution.”The corporator of the ward, Vijay, informed City Express that a plan to close the drain was drawn up three years ago. But due to problems with the budget, the drain still remains open. He said, “I complained to the Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike(BBMP) authorities’ about the ill effects of the drain. I am going to continue with my efforts to get the drain closed.”