National Commission for Safai Karamcharis chairman M Venkatesan held discussion with the sanitary workers at Marapalam area, Erode on Saturday.
In the place, 6 blocks were constructed by the TN Slum Clearance Board (TNSCB) in 1986 having 396 houses. In most of the houses, sanitary workers of Erode Corporation were living. As per the board's norms, after 20 years, the ownership would be given to the tenants paying Rs 40,35 and Rs 30 per month as rent.
Though 20 year period expired in 2006, no ownership deed was given. Now the houses were in dilapidated condition. So, the TNSCB (TN Livelihood Development Board) sent eviction notice to them and decided to demolish the apartments. The residents, however, wanted houses in the same place by constructing new buildings.
The TNSCB, however, rejected the demand citing that as per the HC order, no buildings could be built in the water course areas where the houses were located now. The residents, however, cited construction of 460 houses in many apartments in the same area and apartments at Periyar Nagar and Odaipallam, in adjacent areas. The TNSCB rejected their argument and came forward to allot houses in its apartments built at Nallagoundanpalayam, near Chithodu where over 3600 houses were ready for occupation.
The residents said that the Chithodu area is nearly 20 km away from Erode so that they could face much difficulty to come to their work spot in Erode and attend the work from 5.30 am in Erode Corporation. Hence, they wanted houses within Erode city. Considering their views, Murugesan suggested to them to go to Nallamangapalayam which could develop within 5 years with all facilities for them. But, the residents hesitated to accept his suggestion. Collector Rajagopal Sunkara, SP Javahar, Congress zonal president Jafar Sadhik, BJP leaders Vedanantham, Senthil and many corporation and TNSCB officials were present.
