Will sports complex ever be developed?
Chennai- Even after prolonged six years, the residents of Anna Nagar still continue to wait for a sports complex to be built at Elango Nagar as promised by civic authorities.
In 2006, the erstwhile municipality decided to develop a full-fledged sports complex there with the assistance of Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT).
The authorities had promised six years ago that a sports complex, with outdoor and indoor sporting facilities under one roof, will be developed in the city. Subsequently, 5.4 acres of land at Elan Nagar was also allotted for the purpose.
But till now all it has is a walkers’ path, littered playground and damaged toilet block. Around Rs. 1.5 crore was spent towards provision of basic facilities but today, the plot is a mere picture of neglect. Residents remarked that there had been little progress in the project, after the merger with the Chennai Corporation.
Residents have been fighting for a playground or sports complex in the area for nearly two decades now. If the sports complex was developed, it would cater to residents in and around Anna Nagar western extension and in neighbouring areas such as Padi, Mogappair, Nolambur and Korattur. As there is no other choice, several residents are using the plot for regular walking, and children bring their own sports kits and are using the plot as a playground.
The concerned officials alleged that a proposal to develop the sports complex is under consideration.
Anna Nagar, Chennai, Chennai Corporation, Civic authorities, Elango Nagar, Facilities, Korattur, Mogappair, Nolambur, Padi, Playground, SDAT, sports, sports complex, Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu
