Chennai's Paruthipattu Green Park in Avadi Faces Severe Neglect and Infrastructure Issues
Paruthipattu Green Park in Avadi, Chennai, once a vibrant community hub, has deteriorated into a shadow of its former self due to persistent neglect and poor maintenance. Built at a substantial cost of 28.16 crore rupees, this park was inaugurated in 2019 as part of a broader initiative to revive the historic Paruthipattu lake, an 87-acre water source crucial for the Avadi region.
From Promising Hub to Problematic Space
The park originally featured an impressive array of amenities designed to attract residents and promote recreational activities. These included a 3-kilometer walking track, an open-air theatre, a dedicated children's play area, boating facilities, a library, ample parking, and a food court. However, maintenance efforts have faltered significantly over time, leading to a decline in the park's condition and usability.
Sewage Intrusion and Environmental Concerns
A major issue plaguing the park is the dysfunctional sewage treatment facility installed nearby. This failure has resulted in untreated waste from residential areas, commercial establishments, and stormwater drains flowing directly into Paruthipattu lake, causing severe pollution. The foul odour from the contaminated water now permeates sections of the park, creating an unpleasant environment for visitors.
K Bhaskar, a resident of Avadi, highlighted the reduction in sanitation staff, noting, "More than 10 sanitation workers from a private agency used to keep things clean. Now only two are on duty, sweeping just the entrance." He also pointed out that the walking track is frequently littered with rubbish that remains uncleared, diminishing the park's appeal.
Security and Infrastructure Deficiencies
Residents have raised serious concerns about security and inadequate facilities. The park currently closes at 6:30 PM, which many find too early. Bhaskar emphasized, "It must be open at least till 8 PM. We also need more benches and working streetlights." The dim lighting and broken toilets further compound the problems, deterring families from visiting after dark.
S. Anbazhagan, a lawyer from the area, added that the park becomes a hotspot for illicit activities after sunset. "Tipplers take over the park after dark. We've complained to the Avadi Corporation and police, but nothing happened. Police must patrol after 6 PM," he stated. This lack of security has made the once-promising space vulnerable to illegal activities, raising safety concerns among the community.
Daily Impact on Residents
Despite these challenges, the park continues to attract over 1,000 residents daily, including walkers, families, students, and seniors. The daily influx underscores the park's importance as a recreational space, making its current state all the more frustrating for those who rely on it for leisure and exercise.
Official Response and Proposed Measures
In response to mounting complaints, officials from the Avadi Corporation have acknowledged the issues and promised corrective actions. They stated that steps would be taken to deploy additional sanitation and security staff. Furthermore, measures to prevent stray dog entry and a review of park timings are under consideration to address the community's grievances.
The neglect of Paruthipattu Green Park highlights broader issues of urban maintenance and civic responsibility in Chennai. As residents await tangible improvements, the park stands as a testament to the need for sustained investment and oversight in public infrastructure projects.
