Reports have surfaced claiming that over 10,000 chambers along the city’s sewer and drainage lines are either broken or missing covers, leaving them completely open. This alarming situation came to light through a public interest petition. Observing the severity of the issue, the High Court has ordered an inquiry into the truth of these claims.
The petition highlighted that open or missing chamber covers have already caused several accidents, even leading to loss of life in some cases. The court, taking serious note, directed that the actual condition in the city must be verified. The matter was raised citing both citizen safety and the administration’s accountability.
The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC), however, rejected the claim that 10,000 chamber lids are broken. It argued that the situation is quite the opposite, as nearly 1.5 lakh chamber covers have been installed in the city in recent years. Officials stated that maintenance and replacement of broken covers is being carried out regularly.
NMC also informed the court that this year alone, 3,078 new covers have been fitted, and further replacements are ongoing across different localities. The civic body assured that safety measures are being strengthened to prevent mishaps.
The court emphasized that not only the NMC but also other agencies like the Water Supply Department and Metro authorities must take joint responsibility. Development projects must ensure that chamber lids remain secure, as negligence has led to hazardous conditions on several busy roads.
While the NMC insists the number of broken lids is exaggerated, the court has ordered an independent inspection to verify the claims. The outcome will determine whether the administration’s assurances match the ground reality — and whether public safety is being properly safeguarded.
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