A joint site inspection was conducted on Monday at Abaixo Vaddo, Verla Canca, following complaints from local residents regarding the alleged encroachment and clogging of a storm rainwater culvert in the area.
Officials from the Verla Canca panchayat, the Water Resources Department (WRD) and the Health Department participated in the inspection.
The inspection was initiated after villagers raised concerns that informal settlements had mushroomed close to the culvert, allegedly obstructing the natural flow of rainwater and increasing the risk of flooding during the monsoon.
Residents claimed that the area surrounding the culvert has seen a rapid rise in temporary structures over the past few years.
“During heavy rains, water overflows because the culvert is choked with waste and debris. We fear that if this is not addressed urgently, nearby houses will be affected,” said a local resident, who requested anonymity.
Some villagers alleged that nearly 500 people were residing illegally in the vicinity, though officials said these figures would be verified during follow-up assessments.
Sarpanch Aarti Chari said the panchayat has taken note of the complaints and assured residents that appropriate action would be initiated after the inspection report is compiled.
“The purpose of the joint inspection was to assess the condition of the culvert, identify encroachments if any, and understand the health and safety implications. Once the reports are submitted, the panchayat will act as per the law,” Chari stated.
Villagers also reiterated longstanding concerns over unchecked migration into the area.
In the past, locals have urged the panchayat and police authorities to ensure proper tenant registration and police verification to address safety and civic issues.
Officials from the Health Department reportedly flagged sanitation concerns in the area, while WRD officers focused on the need for immediate declogging of the stormwater drain ahead of the monsoon season.
Further action is expected once departmental reports are finalised.
