CPI(M) petitioned the Thoothukudi collectorate, alleging that 16 villages are being supplied with raw water from the Tamirabharani River after a treatment motor broke down two years ago. Residents report a surge in water‑borne illnesses.

  • Treatment motor at Vazhavallan overhead tank has been non‑functional for two years
  • Raw Tamirabharani River water is being pumped directly to 16 villages
  • Villagers are experiencing a rise in water‑related diseases

During the weekly grievance redressal meeting at the Thoothukudi Collectorate, representatives of the CPI(M) from Eral taluk submitted a petition highlighting that 16 villages are receiving untreated, murky water. The petition was led by S. Nambirajan, secretary of the Srivaikuntam union committee, and residents of Mukkani village.

The document states that water from the Tamirabharani River is being pumped straight into an overhead tank at Vazhavallan, from where it is distributed to villages including Vazhavallan, Mukkani, Umarikadu, Lakshmipuram, Korkai, Athisayapuram and Kottarakurichi. The motor that used to treat this water broke down about two years ago, and no alternative purification system has been installed since.

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Because the water is delivered without any filtration, villagers have complained of turbidity and foul taste, leading to a spike in gastrointestinal, skin and water‑borne infections, especially during the hot summer months.

Mr. Nambirajan warned, “Our people are falling ill because they have no safe drinking water. Immediate action is essential.” He urged Collector Vishu Mahajan to order an urgent repair and to ensure a clean water supply for the affected communities.

Thoothukudi District Collector Vishu Mahajan acknowledged the seriousness of the grievance and directed the Public Works Department and the Water Supply & Drainage Board to commence repairs and explore temporary purification measures within the next two weeks.

Historical Background

Water supply challenges have plagued Thoothukudi district for over a decade. In 2015, similar complaints were raised when aging pipelines forced several villages to rely on untreated river water, prompting protests that eventually led to partial infrastructure upgrades. However, systematic maintenance lapses have persisted, culminating in the present crisis.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that chronic exposure to untreated river water not only poses immediate health risks but also hampers socioeconomic development in rural Tamil Nadu, increasing healthcare costs and reducing agricultural productivity.

"Regular maintenance of water‑treatment equipment is essential not just for public health but also for sustaining rural economies," says Dr. Ramesh Kumar, water‑resource specialist.
Did You Know?: The Tamirabharani River averages an annual flow of 1,200 billion cubic meters, making it one of South India's major waterways.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Has the collector set a timeline for fixing the issue?

A: The collector has indicated that repairs to the motor and installation of a temporary purification unit will begin within two weeks.

Q2: What illnesses are most commonly reported in the affected villages?

A: Diarrhoea, typhoid, hepatitis A and various skin infections have been reported most frequently.