Trichy Corporation has sanctioned Rs 67 lakh for the redevelopment and upgradation of 10 Amma canteens across the city, following a comprehensive survey of the state-run subsidised food outlets. The work will include repairs and improvements to kitchens and dining areas, besides addressing infrastructure needs raised by self-help group (SHG) workers who operate the canteens.
Canteen Operations and Beneficiaries
Trichy has 11 Amma canteens that serve breakfast and lunch, catering mainly to construction workers and daily wage labourers commuting from rural areas. Operating between 7 am and 2.30 pm, the canteens serve around 2,000 people on weekdays. Corporation officials said several canteen buildings, which are nearly a decade old, require strengthening and maintenance works. New kitchen utensils and equipment will also be provided to improve food preparation.
Scope of Work
“Flooring and electrical maintenance work in the dining areas will be carried out. Kitchens will continue to function while the repairs are underway. Electrical cables also need replacement as they have exceeded their service life,” a corporation official said. The value of works sanctioned for each canteen ranges from Rs 4 lakh to Rs 13 lakh.
The canteens serve idlis at Re 1 each and pongal at Rs 5 per plate for breakfast. Lunch options, including lemon rice, tamarind rice and curd rice, are priced between Rs 3 and Rs 5 per plate.
Worker Perspectives
“We have sought additional vessels. Toilets meant for our use were in a dilapidated condition. The redevelopment work will benefit both workers and low-income people who depend on the canteens,” said A Gomathi, an SHG worker at the Thennur Amma canteen. Workers have also requested additional water connections for cleaning utensils and hand-washing facilities for customers.
Corporation officials said the redevelopment works would begin shortly and are expected to be completed within a month.
