Tue Jul 08 14:40:12 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article based on it:

**Summary:**

Rajiv Gandhi Salai (OMR) in Tamil Nadu, a major IT corridor, is facing a severe solid waste management crisis outside the Greater Chennai Corporation limits. Garbage is piling up on service lanes and vacant lots in areas like Navalur, Egattur, and Siruseri, causing inconvenience and posing environmental concerns. Residents and the Federation of OMR Resident Associations (FOMRRA) criticize the local panchayats for their inadequate waste management infrastructure and “village outlook,” despite significant property tax revenues. They point to the lack of structured waste disposal systems, even in areas with waste segregation, and the dumping and burning of garbage near Muttukadu lake. FOMRRA has submitted a report to Thiruporur MLA based on best practices observed in Indore, aiming to modernize waste management in the region.

**News Article:**

**OMR Chokes Under Piles of Garbage: Residents Blame Inadequate Panchayat Waste Management**

**CHENNAI, July 8, 2025** – The Rajiv Gandhi Salai (OMR), also known as the Old Mahabalipuram Road, a bustling IT corridor just outside of Chennai, is facing a mounting garbage crisis. Heaps of waste are accumulating on service lanes and vacant land in areas beyond the Greater Chennai Corporation limits, including Navalur, Egattur, Siruseri, and Muttukadu.

Residents are expressing frustration with the local panchayats, accusing them of failing to provide adequate solid waste management despite collecting significant property taxes. “It’s an eyesore,” said M. Suresh, a resident of Padur. “This is a major IT hub. The panchayats boast about their tax revenue, yet they can’t seem to invest in basic services like cleanliness, drinking water, or sewage lines. They’re even dumping and burning garbage near Muttukadu lake.”

The Federation of OMR Resident Associations (FOMRRA) is leading the charge for improved waste management. Co-founder Harsha Koda stated that the panchayats in the area are still operating with a “village outlook” and lack the vision to handle the growing waste generated by the rapidly urbanizing region.

“They lack the vision and understanding on how to handle the increasing waste generated by this rapidly growing urban landscape,” he added.

Residents also noted that even in gated communities where waste segregation is practiced, the ultimate disposal method remains unclear. “When you step outside the apartment complex, the roads are never clean,” said Keerthi of Kelambakkam.

FOMRRA has taken the initiative to propose solutions. After studying Indore, a city recognized for its effective waste management, the organization submitted a preliminary report to Thiruporur MLA S.S. Balaji. The report outlines a comprehensive action plan to address the problem.

Mr. Koda expressed hope that the panchayats will embrace modernization and improve their waste management practices to bring the area in line with its status as a major economic and technological hub.

Read More