Chennai: The Arignar Anna Park in Royapuram, known locally as Robinson Park, has become a mess as the access road has been dug up for nearly four months, leaving visitors in a lurch. This park holds historical significance as the site where former Chief Minister C. Annadurai announced the launch of the DMK party. However, its entrance on Cemetery Road has been excavated for stormwater drain work, with the pits turning into sewage pools that serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Safety Hazards and Inconvenience
Barricades are missing in some spots, and the pits contain precariously protruding rods that could injure passers-by if they fall. The RSRM Hospital is located opposite the park, and relatives of patients used to visit the park to rest or wait. Now, they struggle to find a waiting space. Although the Greater Chennai Corporation has opened a side entrance a few metres away, people find it difficult to reach it due to the lack of pavements and the congested two-lane stretch crammed with MTC buses, leaving no room for walkers.
Impact on Regular Visitors
Youngsters who frequent the Robinson sports ground are also affected. R. Avinash, a regular visitor, noted that no workers have been seen at the site for the past month. He said, "They cited elections, but these works began before the polls. At least now, the MLA and government must speed it up." Robinson Park was renovated by the DMK government with a new arch, fountain, walkway, and greenery, but the stormwater drain work remains incomplete.
Official Response
Royapuram MLA Vijay Dhamo was unavailable for comment. A Greater Chennai Corporation official from the Royapuram zone stated that the work is being carried out by the Stormwater Drain (SWD) department and that they will instruct the assistant engineer to inspect it. Deputy Mayor Mahesh Kumar said the work must be expedited and officials should look into the matter.
