Six years. That's how long it took Noida Authority to start work on covering an open drain outside Sector 39, Noida. But residents are happy that the work has finally started.
After numerous letters and follow-ups for over six years, Noida Authority finally took ognisance of the problem, and work started on April 3.
MC Gaur, general secretary of the Sector 39 RWA, told City Spidey that his house is located near the drain and the stench from it has been unbearable all these years. "In addition to being a health concern, gases emitted from the drain had been affecting electrical items such as air-conditioners and coolers. They would hardly ever last a season," he added.
Manoj Kumar, project engineer of Noida Authority, said that the work would be completed by the end of July. "We have started covering a 400-m stretch of the drain. The project will be completed at a cost of Rs 3.25 crore," added Kumar.
Vatsala Parashar, president of the RWA, told City Spidey that getting the drain covered was her priority since she got elected. "I am thankful that the Authority has finally taken the work up," she said.
Anil Khanna, president of the Sector 41 RWA, said, "I am happy for Sector 39 but surprised that despite facing the same problem and being in touch with Auhority officials for the past three years, there has been no action in our sector yet," he added.