Chennai: A 2.5-acre park at Sri Sai Nagar, Thoraippakkam, that once attracted walkers and children, is in disrepair. Opened in 2015 as a green lung, the park suffered extensive damage during rain and flooding in 2024.Walking paths were cracked and rendered uneven, deterring regular users and sharply reducing footfall, according to R Nagarajan, secretary of Sri Sai Nagar House Owners’ Association. “People stopped coming because the walkways became unsafe,” he said.Residents said the park’s decline accelerated because of maintenance lapses. There is no functional lighting and the main gate remains open at night. “By nightfall, the park turns into a hub for tipplers,” said a resident.“A watchman’s salary continues to be drawn by civic authorities despite no caretaker being posted after the 2024 rains,” added the resident.Just before the elections were announced, civic crews began repair work at the park, but stopped once polls were announced. “They began work and left it midway. It raised expectations, but nothing was completed,” Nagarajan said.Attempts by TOI to contact the zonal officer responsible for the area drew no response.Residents urged Greater Chennai Corporation to complete the stalled repairs, reassign a caretaker, fix the lighting and secure the entrance to restore safe public use.
