Noida Sector 55 Residents Grapple with Sewage Crisis and Aging Infrastructure
For over a month, a stagnant pool of muddy water has remained near main gate number 5 in Noida's Sector 55, highlighting a severe civic issue. Residents report that a broken sewage treatment plant (STP) pipeline is causing ground seepage and muck overflow in the area. Despite multiple complaints to the Noida Authority, the problem persists, with locals expressing frustration over the lack of action.
Broken Pipeline and Sinking Ground Raise Safety Concerns
Satnarayan Goyal, president of the sector's Residents Welfare Association (RWA), voiced serious safety concerns. "The ground is sinking here," he said. "There is a guard's room near the gate, and its wall could collapse at any time. We have complained several times. Is the Authority waiting for an accident to happen?" The broken STP pipeline has led to continuous seepage, creating a hazardous environment for the community.
Health Risks from Contaminated Water Spread Across Greater Noida
The repercussions of poor sewage management extend beyond Sector 55. In recent weeks, reports have emerged of contaminated water mixed with sewage being supplied to several sectors in Greater Noida, including Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Delta. This has resulted in a surge of waterborne illnesses among residents, with symptoms such as:
- Stomach disorders
- Vomiting
- Fever
Residents of Sector 55 fear similar health issues if the STP problem remains unaddressed. Developed in the early 1980s, the sector is home to over 8,000 people and features water, sewer, and power infrastructure that is over two decades old and urgently needs upgrades.
Aging Civic Infrastructure and Lack of Official Response
Rajesh Aggarwal, former RWA general secretary of Sector 55, highlighted the Authority's inaction. "There is no thought in that direction from officials, despite our repeated warnings," he stated. He pointed out that the existing sewer line is not only old but also heavily choked, requiring immediate replacement. "We made several complaints regarding this matter, but the silence from the authorities is deafening," Aggarwal added.
Additional Safety Hazards from Poor Street Lighting
Beyond sewer issues, residents face risks due to inadequate street lighting. Aggarwal noted that streetlights are spaced 20-25 meters apart, with poles over 20 feet high and engulfed by overgrown trees and branches. "These were not pruned for months, resulting in long stretches of complete darkness at night, creating safety hazards," he explained. This lack of maintenance further compromises the safety and well-being of the community.
Partial Repairs Leave Core Issues Unresolved
While a team from the Noida Authority's water department visited the site late Wednesday afternoon to repair the STP pipeline leaks, other critical issues such as choked sewers and faulty streetlights remain unaddressed. The ongoing neglect of aging infrastructure continues to pose significant health and safety risks to residents, underscoring the need for comprehensive civic upgrades in the area.
