Chennai: Barely 200 meters from the Madhya Kailash temple and Calvary community church, a Tasmac shop has been a persistent concern for residents of Adyar's Kasturba Nagar for many years. Last week, the government claimed that 717 such shops near educational institutions and places of worship had been closed. However, this outlet (number 953) has slipped through the cracks even as it featured on the list of shops to be shut.
Residents Raise Concerns
“Customers gather in huge numbers, block the front entrance of an apartment right opposite it, consume liquor and litter the area. Many tipplers pass out or create a nuisance here,” said D Balaji, vice-president of the Kasturba Nagar South residents welfare association.
The outlet also adds to congestion on the road, which lies close to the MRTS station. According to Tasmac, the outlet sees daily sales worth Rs 9.67 lakh.
“There are several encroachments by eateries on the road here, shrinking the carriageway. When people queue up outside the shops, it becomes even more difficult for vehicles to pass through,” said Narayanan, a resident.
Safety and Relocation Plans
Residents also flagged safety risks to women, children and the elderly. A Tasmac official said steps were being taken to relocate the shop to LB Road in Adyar, but did not mention a deadline.
