The popular Happy Streets initiative is set to transform a key stretch of Chennai's Anna Nagar into a vibrant, car-free zone this weekend. The event will take place on Sunday, December 21, bringing health, fitness, and community spirit to the heart of the neighborhood.
Event Details and Activities
From 6:00 AM to 8:30 AM, the section of Anna Nagar 2nd Avenue running from Nalli Silks to Blue Star will be completely closed to vehicular traffic. This opens up the road for residents to reclaim their streets for fun and fitness.
The event promises a packed schedule with something for everyone. Attendees can participate in or watch energetic sessions of Zumba, Taekwondo, gymnastics, dance, and silambam performances. Dedicated zones will cater to diverse interests:
- A dynamic sports zone featuring basketball and badminton.
- A traditional games zone for a dose of nostalgia.
- A music zone to set the rhythm for the morning.
- Activities like skateboarding and a special pet show.
This initiative is designed to promote community bonding and a healthy lifestyle in an engaging, family-friendly environment.
Traffic Diversions and Advisory
To ensure the event runs smoothly, the Greater Chennai Traffic Police have announced a complete blockade of vehicular movement on the stretch from 5:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Detailed diversion plans have been put in place:
For vehicles from Thirumangalam:
- Heading to Anna Nagar roundabout/Chinthamani: Take a left at Blue Star junction onto 5th Avenue, proceed to 6th Avenue, reach K4 police station roundabout, and continue to Chinthamani.
- Heading to Aminjikarai/EVR Salai: Take a right at Blue Star junction onto 5th Avenue, proceed to 4th Avenue, and continue towards Aminjikarai/Poonamallee High Road.
For vehicles from Anna Nagar roundabout towards Thirumangalam: Take a left at the Nalli junction on 2nd Avenue, proceed via 3rd Main Road to 4th Avenue, and continue towards Thirumangalam/Mogappair.
For vehicles from Jessie Moses school side (5th Avenue): Those going towards 2nd Avenue/Anna Nagar roundabout at Blue Star junction should go straight on 5th Avenue to 4th Avenue and proceed towards Anna Nagar roundabout.
Collaborative Effort for Community Wellness
Happy Streets is a collaborative effort spearheaded by The Times of India in partnership with civic and police authorities. The key partners include the Greater Chennai Traffic Police, Greater Chennai Corporation, and Greater Chennai Police.
The event is presented by Casagrand, in association with Balmer Lawrie and TI Cycles. SSVM Institutions is the education partner, while Naga- Savorit and SRM Prime Hospitals provide support as the health partner.
This Sunday morning offers a unique opportunity for Chennai's residents to experience their city streets in a new light, emphasizing community interaction and healthy living over the usual hustle of traffic.
