Sun Feb 15 05:45:52 UTC 2026: ### Chennai Residents Demand Prioritization of Basic Infrastructure in Upcoming Budget

The Story:
As the Tamil Nadu and Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) budget announcements approach, Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) in Chennai are voicing concerns about the persistent lack of basic civic infrastructure. Residents are urging authorities to prioritize long-pending projects such as piped water supply, underground sewage systems, and functional stormwater drains (SWD), particularly in rapidly developing areas like Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR) and Sholinganallur. The RWAs are calling for transparency in contracts, adherence to quality standards, and a swift grievance redress mechanism to mitigate flood risks and improve the overall quality of life.

Key Points:

  • Residents of OMR have been waiting over 15 years for basic amenities like piped water and sewage connections.
  • The Model School Road in Sholinganallur, with nearly 7,000 apartments, lacks a functional SWD system, leading to frequent flooding.
  • Despite budgetary allocations since 2016, stormwater and drainage project implementation has been inadequate.
  • Residents are concerned about high water connection charges, potentially as high as ₹80,000.
  • Delays persist in the widening of the Thiruvanmiyur to Akkarai stretch and the construction of proposed iron-girder bridges.
  • A culvert in Velachery lacks a proper outlet to the Pallikaranai marshland, causing recurrent water stagnation despite allocated funds.
  • RWAs are requesting the completion of long-pending projects over the announcement of new ones.
  • Concerns exist regarding regulation of heavy vehicle movement, park maintenance, and senior citizen amenities in areas like Nolambur and Maduravoyal.

Key Takeaways:

  • Rapid urban development in Chennai’s IT corridor has not been matched by commensurate infrastructure investment.
  • Budgetary allocations alone are insufficient; effective implementation, transparency, and accountability are critical.
  • Citizen engagement and a responsive grievance redressal system are necessary for addressing long-standing infrastructure deficits.
  • Lack of proper planning is affecting the resident’s daily lives.
  • The demands highlight a growing frustration among residents who are calling for a shift in priorities from short-term solutions to durable and sustainable infrastructure development.

    Read More

Related News: