Ward 52: Tussle between growth and welfare

Civic issues in Ward 52, covering areas of Old Washermanpet and Royapuram, reflect some of the key challenges to the growth and development of north Chennai.

As development of infrastructure and planned urban housing gain momentum in such congested areas, the civic body and councillors seem to be facing unique challenges precipitated by the tussle between development and residents’ welfare.

“New construction sites of high-rise residential projects are a threat to poor residents. Houses in our Chetty Thottam were damaged recently after construction materials, including stones, fell from a great height,” said a resident.

“Chennai Corporation officials have asked the developer to take precautionary measures to prevent such accidents. While the developer claims to have taken safety measures, residents near Royapuram bridge are still complaining. So officials are monitoring the safety aspects of large construction sites,” said councillor S. Nagamma.

The ward covers commercial areas such as Monegar Choultry Road and MS Koil Road. The ward also has a lot of ATMs reflecting the growing business in the locality, but parking space for most of the commercial buildings is limited. “Vehicles are parked on the road. This is causing traffic congestion,” T. Suresh, a resident, said.

The ward has major landmarks such as Arignar Anna Poonga; Government Stanley Medical College Hospital and RSRM Hospital. High population density means more illegal buildings, leading to sewage overflow on the streets. Some residents feel that civic officials do not respond to grievances reported by the public directly.

“Mosquito problem is high as source reduction has not been done. Cattle menace is another problem,” says Ernest Paul, Royapuram Residents’ Welfare Association president. “Poor residents rely on RSRM hospital for treatment. But they have to give away bribes even for information about newborns,” he said.

The ward has key bus routes such as Old Jail Road and MS Koil Street. Residents said frequency of bus services should improve. Ms. Nagamma said more than 200 civic works had been completed in the past five years.