Poor Infrastructure in Navalur Affects Residents’ Quality of Life
Navalur, a rapidly-developing suburb along Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR) in Chennai, is attracting an increasing number of residents and businesses. Once a serene area surrounded by greenery, Navalur has transformed into a bustling hub due to its proximity to numerous information technology companies and educational institutions. The area has also become a hotspot because of its connection to the upcoming Metro Rail Phase 2, which will improve accessibility. However, the infrastructure has not kept pace with the rapid urbanisation, leaving residents grappling with various civic issues, making life in the area increasingly challenging.
The growth of Navalur has been marked by an increase in residential and commercial buildings, but the condition of roads, waste management systems, and sewage infrastructure is deteriorating. As more people move in, the roads that were once designed for less traffic are now struggling to handle the volume of vehicles. “The condition of the roads is always poor, and despite regular relays, they remain broken. This results in traffic jams that hinder our access to the city and other areas,” says P. Rithika, a resident for the past two years. Service roads, especially near local markets and malls, have become dumping grounds for garbage and debris. Residents are pushing for proper waste management systems, including more frequent garbage collection and strategically placed bins.
Another key issue that highlights the lack of proper urban planning is the inadequate sewage system. While sewage lines extend up to Shollingnallur, they stop short of Navalur, leading to untreated sewage being released into open plots and water bodies, polluting the environment and posing a serious health risk. “We have raised this issue multiple times, but nothing has been done. The untreated sewage contaminates groundwater and causes a terrible stench,” explains Atish Baisantry, vice-president of the OMR Gandhi Nagar Plot Owners Welfare Association. Such neglect of basic infrastructure has resulted in residents struggling with hygiene issues, water pollution, and an overall decline in the quality of life in the area.
The lack of coordination between different local bodies and unclear jurisdictional boundaries further complicates efforts to address these problems. As Navalur falls outside the Greater Chennai Corporation’s jurisdiction, it faces delays in getting the attention it needs. Harsha Koda, co-founder of the Federation of OMR Resident Associations (FOMRRA), highlights that issues raised with local officials often lead to a frustrating cycle of redirection. “Officials pass the buck between different panchayats, leaving us with little hope of resolution,” Koda explains. The unclear electoral rolls in the region further exacerbate the situation, making it difficult for residents to determine which local body to approach for specific problems.
From a sustainability standpoint, the lack of adequate waste management, proper sewage systems, and urban planning presents serious environmental concerns. The unchecked discharge of untreated sewage into open spaces and water bodies exacerbates pollution levels in the area, threatening the local ecosystem and affecting the health of residents. If left unaddressed, the growing population and unchecked urbanisation will result in further strain on already fragile infrastructure. However, despite these challenges, the situation can be improved with proper governance and long-term planning. Residents are hoping that ongoing dialogue with local authorities will lead to better management of resources and a more sustainable living environment in Navalur.
In conclusion, while Navalur offers immense potential as a residential and business hub due to its strategic location and proximity to essential services, the lack of adequate infrastructure is making it a challenging place to live. The area is in urgent need of proper roads, sewage systems, waste management, and better coordination between local authorities to ensure that growth is sustainable. As more people continue to flock to Navalur, it will be essential to implement comprehensive urban planning strategies to manage this expansion and safeguard the future of the suburb and its residents.
