Tue Jul 29 00:58:40 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

Anakaputhur, a small area near Chennai, India, historically known for its handloom industry, particularly the “Real Madras Handkerchief,” is on the cusp of significant development. Once a hub of 5,000 looms, the industry has dwindled due to market crashes and lack of marketing. Weavers have shifted to other products like lungies and sarees. Pollution in the Adyar River, which was vital to the dyeing process, poses a threat. While parts of the area retain their old charm, redevelopment is occurring, particularly in areas like Balaji Nagar and Gurusamy Nagar. Infrastructure improvements are expected due to road widening projects, removal of encroachments, and the area’s incorporation into the Tambaram Corporation, offering hope for better basic facilities. The widened Pallavaram – Kundrathur – Poonamallee Road will be vital for connectivity to the new airport at Parandur.

**News Article:**

**Anakaputhur: Historic Weaving Village Poised for Modern Development Boom**

**CHENNAI, July 29, 2025** – Anakaputhur, a once-thriving weaving village on the outskirts of Chennai, is on the brink of transformation. Known historically as Aanai Kattu Puthur, the place where elephants were tied up for the kings of nearby Pallavapuram, this unassuming area is now set to experience rapid development.

Famed for the “Real Madras Handkerchief,” also known as Bleeding Madras and Madras Checks, Anakaputhur’s handloom industry once boasted 5,000 looms. However, a decline in the Nigerian export market and lack of effective marketing strategies have seen that number dwindle to just a hundred-odd. Weavers have adapted, shifting to the production of lungies, jute-based products, and sarees.

“We used to have 5,000 looms at one point. But now there are just a hundred-odd left”, said C. Sekar, a third-generation weaver who, along with his family, makes cotton sarees infused with banana fiber.

Pollution in the Adyar River, which once provided the clear water essential for the vibrant colors of the Madras Checks, has become a major concern. “Unless steps are taken to prevent waste from leather factories near Nagalkeni from entering the river, the quality of the water will not improve,” Sekar added.

While some parts of Anakaputhur retain their traditional charm, particularly areas with tiled-roof homes, redevelopment is underway. The widening of the Pallavaram – Kundrathur – Poonamallee Road by the Highways Department, coupled with the removal of encroachments along the Adyar River by the Water Resources Department, has sparked optimism for improved infrastructure.

The 13 km road is important because the proposed greenfield airport at Parandur will be connected to Meenambakkam. According to a retired Highways engineer, the road will become safer and accommodate larger vehicles.

The incorporation of Anakaputhur into the Tambaram Corporation is expected to bring further improvements. Residents hope that underground drain works nearing completion will soon be followed by better roads and basic amenities.

“We were a municipality with just 18 wards with no wherewithal to provide basic facilities. Now things are looking better. We were told that our roads would be soon laid,” said Krishnaveni, a resident.

As Anakaputhur embraces modernization, the challenge will be to preserve its rich weaving heritage while adapting to the demands of the 21st century.

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