Residents of Pallavaram have a new reason to rejoice, for, a massive park that was long overdue in the neighbourhood, has now come up. It’s a perfect spot for an evening picnic, workout sessions, or a peaceful walk amidst the greenery. Imagine an open-air theatre with a local stand-up comedian performing on stage, a fountain to the left, children playing on swings and slides, people skating smoothly on a rink, and older people having a gala time at the senior citizens’ bay. What’s more, the park also includes a large amphitheatre for live plays.
The Cantonment Park, located on the Old Cattle Shandy road, Pallavaram, was inaugurated recently by Lieutenant General RK Anand, General Officer Commanding, Dakshin Bharat Area.
The project was given flight a year ago. According to Ajith Reddy, CEO, The Cantonment Board, St Thomas Mount, The India Habitat Centre in Delhi was an inspiration while conceptualising the park. He says, “I am a product of IIT-Madras, and after seeing open-air shows there, I had to make sure I provide a platform for local artistes who get lost in larger venues due to competition.”
A lover of art and culture himself, he wants to motivate people to appreciate creative art and encourage them to perform without any restrictions. He says, “I want people here to own this park. It’s for them. I want them to maintain its beauty while taking full advantage of the facilities.” He adds that he would like to see future sports champions practising at the park.
The inauguration saw performances by students of Cantonment Board schools, St Theresa of Child Jesus School of Nursing, and Neyam — a school for differently-abled children.
Lt Gen Anand says, “We promise to help the Cantonment Board in making the Chennai Cantonment the best in India. I wish to fund a music system for the park, and a screen for the open-air auditorium to facilitate screening of movies, sports and cultural events.” He also donated ₹5 lakh to Neyam school to help the differently-abled students.
