Basic amenities elude 500 tsunami-affected families in New Nambiyar Nagar

500 tsunami-affected families in New Nambiyar Nagar struggle without basic amenities, facing neglect and deteriorating living conditions two decades later.

Over two decades after the tsunami, around 500 families residing in New Nambiyar Nagar — a rehabilitation colony under Ivanallur panchayat near Nagapattinam municipality — continue to live without basic civic amenities, with residents alleging official apathy despite repeated representations.

The settlement comprises tsunami quarters built for families displaced from the original Nambiyar Nagar fishing hamlet. While the housing project was intended to provide long-term security, residents say their living conditions have steadily deteriorated over the years.

Almost all the houses constructed during the rehabilitation phase are now in a crumbling state. Walls have developed deep cracks, and portions of structures collapse frequently, posing safety risks to occupants. “Our houses are breaking down piece by piece. We fear for our children’s safety,” said V. Sumithra.

Drinking water supply remains irregular. Residents said piped water reaches the area only once in 10 days under normal conditions and once in three days during the rainy season. Each house has a syntax tank to store water, but the limited supply is insufficient. Many families rely on private water lorries, paying ₹400 for 500 litres and often sharing the cost with neighbours. “We are daily wage earners. How can we afford this regularly?” asked S. Kalaiyarasi.

Road infrastructure is virtually absent. All internal roads remain sand tracks. Though a tar road was laid a few years after the tsunami, it deteriorated and eventually disappeared. During rains, stagnant water accumulates across the colony due to the absence of storm-water drains, making movement difficult and accelerating structural damage to houses.

Sanitation facilities are inadequate. The colony has no underground sewage lines or drainage canals. Residents said there is no designated space for waste disposal and that garbage is not collected regularly by the panchayat. “We don’t have anywhere to throw our waste. No one comes here to collect it,” said M. Revathi.