Chennai has launched a significant health initiative aimed at over 11,000 sanitary workers, marking a major step towards enhancing the well-being of this vital workforce. The initiative, inaugurated by the Mayor at Government Stanley Hospital, will extend over the next three months and involves master health check-ups at five key government hospitals across the city.
The comprehensive check-up programme includes 14 critical tests such as thyroid function, diabetes screening, HIV testing, as well as eye and ear examinations. For female workers aged over 35, cervical cancer screening will be part of the health assessments. The hospitals participating in this programme are Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, Government Stanley Hospital, Kilpauk Hospital, Tamil Nadu Government Multi Super Speciality Hospital, Omandurar, and Kalaignar Super Speciality Hospital.
Following the health checks, workers will receive necessary medications through the Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam scheme, a significant move aimed at ensuring continued healthcare support. This initiative underscores the city’s commitment to the health and safety of those who contribute crucially to its sanitation services. In addition to the health initiative, the Mayor highlighted recent improvements in dengue control, noting a reduction in cases compared to the previous year. While 6,000 cases were reported in 2023, only 12 cases have been documented so far this month, a promising sign of effective measures.
Further advancements include ongoing stormwater drainage works, with 80% completion reported in the Kosasthalaiyar River area. The project, focused on reducing city inundation during the northeast monsoon, is expected to wrap up by the end of the month. Additionally, plans for multi-level parking solutions are in the works, with site identification underway to address urban parking challenges. The Mayor also pointed out that the State government has implemented several measures to prevent flooding during the monsoon, reflecting a proactive approach to urban management and disaster preparedness.
