Corporation begins replacing damaged manhole chamber covers in Erode

With several damaged manhole chamber covers posing a risk to motorists, the Corporation has initiated work to replace 90 covers at an estimated cost of ₹40 lakh.

The Underground Sewerage Scheme (UGSS) is under implementation in 53 of the 60 wards spread across four zones. Sewage pipelines, totalling 525 km in length, have been laid along the centre of roads, and 21,141 manhole chambers fitted with covers were constructed. Most of the works were completed, and the system has been operational since 2018.

Whenever blockages occur in the pipelines, conservancy staff remove the manhole covers to carry out maintenance. In addition, the frequent passage of heavy vehicles over these covers often causes damage. At several points, the manholes are either raised above or sunk below the road surface. This unevenness, combined with the pressure from vehicle movement, has led to recurring breakages, many of which were only temporarily repaired.

In some locations, unsuspecting motorists have met with accidents due to the damaged covers. Road users and residents have been consistently demanding that the civic body replace them across the city.

In the first phase, the civic body is replacing 90 covers at a total cost of ₹40 lakh, and the work is currently in progress. According to a senior Corporation engineer, new ductile iron covers with frames, 600 mm in diameter and capable of withstanding loads up to 40 tonnes, are being installed on roads frequently used by heavy and commercial vehicles. The official added that replacement of damaged covers in other areas will be taken up in subsequent phases over the coming months.