A section of a prominent neighbourhood park in central Chennai is set to be temporarily repurposed for construction works linked to the Chennai Port-Maduravoyal Elevated Corridor, bringing renewed attention to how large transport projects can coexist with urban green spaces. The move has triggered concerns among local residents over the long-term impact on public amenities, mature trees and ecological infrastructure.
Officials involved with the 21-kilometre elevated corridor project confirmed that a portion of Mayor Sundara Rao Park in Egmore will be used to accommodate three support structures required for the double-decker expressway. The corridor, estimated to cost ₹3,570 crore, is targeted for completion in late 2027 and is expected to strengthen freight movement between Chennai Port and western parts of the city. While authorities have indicated that the park land will be restored after construction activities are completed, sections of the existing landscape are expected to undergo changes. Civic officials said the required area has already been identified and technical clearances are under process. Some pathways within the park could be affected because of the alignment of the elevated structure.
The Chennai Port-Maduravoyal Corridor has been positioned as a key logistics asset aimed at reducing travel time for cargo traffic and easing congestion on surface roads. Urban economists note that improved connectivity around ports often generates wider economic benefits, enhancing supply chains and supporting industrial activity. However, they caution that infrastructure expansion inside dense urban districts must also account for environmental assets and public access. According to officials associated with the project, several trees and saplings within the park area will have to be removed. Compensatory plantation drives have been undertaken elsewhere, though urban ecologists point out that replacement planting does not immediately replicate the ecological value or shade provided by established trees. They argue that preserving existing green cover remains critical for heat mitigation and climate resilience in rapidly warming cities.
Residents and regular users of the park have expressed apprehension over losing an important community space used by walkers, students, workers and families throughout the day. Community representatives have sought greater transparency regarding the exact extent of land required and have urged authorities to protect water conservation systems and retain access to unaffected portions of the park during construction. The Chennai Port-Maduravoyal Corridor highlights a broader challenge confronting Indian cities: how to deliver critical infrastructure without diminishing the quality of public spaces that contribute to urban liveability. As construction progresses, planners and civic agencies will face increasing pressure to ensure that restoration commitments translate into meaningful improvements and that mobility gains are achieved alongside environmental stewardship.
