Thiruvambadi: The iron grill placed over a drainage channel at the entrance to the bus stand from Church Road has turned into a safety hazard.

The drainage was constructed by the Thiruvambadi panchayat two years ago and covered with the grill to prevent waterlogging inside the bus stand and to stop runoff water from flowing in from the road. However, with heavy vehicles passing over it regularly, the welding of the grill has given way, leaving it broken and dangerous. The iron bars on the frame have also started to deteriorate.

Unaware of the risk, pedestrians are particularly vulnerable. Just last week, the leg of a school student got stuck between the bars of the grill before being rescued by onlookers. On another occasion, a passenger too met with an accident at the same spot.

With concerns rising, the public and local traders have demanded urgent repairs to avoid further mishaps. Panchayat authorities have assured that steps have been taken to replace the damaged grill and that the work will begin without delay.