Chennai: Alandur may be part of Chennai corporation, but it is only on paper, say social activists. A large area of Alandur constituency comes under Greater Chennai Corporation’s jurisdiction since 2011. But some major civic grievances, including one that is 15-year-old, remain not redressed and a few have worsened. Consequently, many residents have collectively decided to vote for ‘None of The Above(NOTA)’ in the May 16 Assembly elections.
Deccan Chronicle takes a look at the civic and environmental issues which have made many hopeless and decide to opt for NoTA. Inflated Property Tax
In Alandur constituency, the roads are battered and water supply is inadequate. Yet, residents lament they have to pay Rs 6.50 per sq. feet which is more than the tax for property on Mount Road which is Rs 4.50 per sq.feet. Save Adambakkam lake
Once a lifeline of agriculturalists in Adambakkam and Nanganallur, Adambakkam lake has reduced due to encroachments. The lake beautification project that includes setting up of a walkers path is a 15 year-old demand. It is an irony that part of MRTS construction is on the lake body. GH in a five-km radius
While neighboring Pallavaram municipality has several government hospitals, including the National Institute of Siddha and a general hospital, Alandur constituency lacks a government hospital. “Corporation hospitals do not have facilities and do not include major departments,” says V. Ramarao, a social activist.
Modify Palavanthangal subway Palavanthangal subway should be renovated so that the bottleneck on 4th Street, Nanganallur, can be avoided. According to Indian Roads Congress, no subway is permitted with a bend at the start, said V. Subramani of traffic and transportation forum.
Arts college for women Women students either go to Vaishnav College at Chromepet or Chellamal college, Guindy, which is not in the vicinity. “Using rail and road transport to reach the college is a struggle,” said a visually challenged student, C. Padma. Power supply
Power fluctuation is an element of fright to students and working employees. The 33 KV substation in Nanganallur is the only lifeline for two decades. A proposal to construct a 110 KV station still remains on paper due to land acquisition problems. Non issue of ration cards, delayed MRTS project from Velachery to StThomas Mount and non upgrading of Moovarasampet village panchayat are the other main issues which haunt the residents.
