Residents in Chennai claim there has been no visible progress on the ₹26.61-crore health walkway projects announced by the State in 2024 to be done under Greater Chennai Corporation.

It was announced in the Assembly session in 2024 that 16 health walkways including in Tondiarpet Zone (IV), along MKB Nagar Central Avenue, Meenambal Salai, Sathyamurthy Nagar Main Road, Ritherdon Road, R.A. Puram Second Main Road, Nanganallur 4th, 5th and 6th Main Roads, Teynampet, and Old Thiru Vi Ka Bridge, would be constructed.

The project is ongoing according to information shared by the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC), the project is ongoing with ₹26.61 crore allocated under Capital funds of GCC and Tamil Nadu Urban Road Infrastructure Fund (Turif). Whereas, residents claim there has been no development.

Federation of Senior Citizens, Tamil Nadu president V. Rama Rao, claimed that there was no initiation in Nanganallur areas, but there is a dire need for the projects, as the pavements are taken over by the vendors. “The GCC is in the process of earmarking the designated spots for the vendors. If this project is done before 2026 elections commence, it would be very helpful for voters, especially senior citizens, to walk around,” he suggested.

Dilli, a resident from Tondiarpet, alleged that the project did not commence there, and the current sidewalks are damaged with several waste dumps piled up. “Waste piles makes walking safely difficult for pedestrians, especially women and students. The waste blocks drains, causing leakages, and despite educational efforts, littering continues.  Proper walkways would be a welcome change,” he added.

Chennai Deputy Mayor M.Magesh Kumaar said the projects must be expedited and Chennai’s streets must be improved to international standards. “Pedestrian needs must be give due diligence. We will look into these complaints,” he added.