Chennai: Rs 1,013 crore Perambur plan to fund 50 infra projects
- Rs 1,013 crore allocated for 50 infrastructure projects in Perambur, Chennai
- Plan includes road upgrades, stormwater drains and community spaces
- Projects aim to address long-standing civic issues in the area
Massive infrastructure push for Perambur
The Chennai Corporation has unveiled a Rs 1,013 crore development plan for Perambur. The package will fund 50 infrastructure projects across the neighbourhood. Officials say the initiative is one of the largest single-area development outlays in recent years.
The plan targets roads, stormwater drainage, street lighting and community spaces. Work is expected to begin within three months. The corporation has already floated tenders for several projects.
Decades-old issues in focus
Perambur residents have long complained about flooded streets during monsoon and narrow, potholed roads. The new plan prioritises widening of key arterial roads and building concrete stormwater drains. Two major roads — Paper Mills Road and Buckingham Canal Road — are set for complete overhaul.
Community halls and parks will also get a facelift. The corporation plans to develop three new playgrounds and renovate five existing parks. Officials say the projects will benefit an estimated 5 lakh residents in the area.
Funding and timeline
The state government has approved Rs 713 crore from its own funds. The remaining Rs 300 crore will come from the Chennai Corporation's budget and central schemes like the Smart Cities Mission. The entire package is expected to be executed over 24 months.
A senior corporation official said the projects will be monitored through a dedicated dashboard. Monthly reviews will track progress. Delays in land acquisition could affect a few road-widening projects, but the official said most work will proceed without hurdles.
Residents cautiously optimistic
Local resident welfare associations have welcomed the announcement. But many are sceptical about timely completion. Past infrastructure projects in the city have faced cost overruns and missed deadlines.
R. Venkatesan, a resident of Perambur for 30 years, said: "We have heard promises before. Let us see if the work actually starts and finishes on time." The corporation has promised a grievance redressal mechanism for public feedback during construction.
What to watch next: The first set of tenders will be opened in August. If awarded on schedule, work on major roads could begin by October, before the next monsoon season.