A dangerously deteriorated 45-year-old overhead water tank in Kamaraj Nagar, Avathipalayam, near Pallipalayam in Namakkal district, has sparked serious safety concerns among residents. Locals fear the structure, once vital for drinking water supply, could collapse at any moment, endangering hundreds of families and schoolchildren.
Constructed decades ago with a capacity of one lakh litres, the tank now shows alarming signs of decay. “The cement is flaking off, the support pillars are cracked, and the steel reinforcements are visibly rusted and broken,” said resident K Vijayakumar, adding that the damage is evident even from the outside.
The tank stands near power loom units, schools, and residential houses, making its poor condition a critical public safety threat. School children walk by the tank daily, prompting fear among parents and students alike.
Despite repeated complaints and meetings with officials over the last six months, residents say no action has been taken. With each passing day, anxiety grows that the tank could give way without warning.
The residents are now demanding immediate demolition of the old tank and the construction of a new, safer structure. They urge the district administration to act swiftly before lives are put at further risk.