The main road leading to the VGP residential layout in Chennai's Uthandi area has become a nightmare for residents and commuters, especially on weekends, due to rampant illegal encroachments. The problem stems from makeshift eateries, coffee shops, and various commercial outlets that have spilled over from their premises onto the main road and the adjoining service lane.
Survey Confirms Widespread Violations
Acting on persistent complaints from locals, the local tahsildar's office conducted a detailed survey of the land and shops just last week. The findings were stark. A surveyor from the office revealed that most shops had extended their operations illegally onto public roads, completely blocking footpaths. He stated, "About 90% of the survey work is complete. We will submit the formal report to the Chennai Corporation within a week."
On-Ground Reality: Banners, Chairs, and Vanished Footpaths
A physical inspection of the area paints a clear picture of the chaos. Banners and advertisements have been erected dangerously close to the moving traffic. The footpaths are nowhere to be seen, as they have been fully occupied by these commercial establishments. In a blatant example, one eatery has placed chairs and tables for its customers right outside, next to the service lane, directly eating into the road space.
Residents point out an added complexity: a portion of the encroached land is believed to belong to the T N Road Development Company (TNRDC). A resident from the 2nd Main Road explained the domino effect, "When shops extend illegally, their customers also end up parking vehicles on the roads. This has led to traffic bottlenecks and even accidents outside these eateries." The residents have already submitted a formal representation to the Regional Deputy Commissioner (South) seeking intervention.
Authorities Await Report, Outline Action Plan
The Chennai Corporation is now waiting for the official survey report to initiate action. Thanigai Velan, the area's Executive Engineer, clarified the potential steps. "The type of action depends on the gravity of the offence," he said. "If it's just banners causing encroachment, we will negotiate for their removal. However, if entire structures are found to be illegally built, we will follow due process by sending a prior notice before any removal drive."
While the RDC (South) Aftab Rasool was unavailable for comment, Ward Committee Chair V Mathiyazhagan assured that he would expedite measures to clear the encroachments once the report is in hand. The coming weeks will be crucial to see if the survey translates into concrete action to reclaim the public road and restore order in the Uthandi locality.
