Chennai: A five-acre open space reservation (OSR) land in Medavakkam has remained neglected for years, with residents urging its conversion into a park or playground.
Medavakkam panchayat president R Sivabooshanam said they have requested CMDA to convert the space into a park. “But they cite a lack of funds. We are awaiting action,” she said.
Located near an apartment complex on Veeran Koil Street, the site has been unused for years. “Over time, sand from desilting Medavakkam Periya Eri and Anai Eri in Pallikaranai was dumped here, followed by construction debris from stormwater drain work. As a result, the ground level has risen, with some spots now four feet higher than the compound walls of nearby apartments,” said Arjun Shankar, a resident.
Arjun Shankar emphasized the need for a natural development approach, suggesting a mud walking track, a children’s play area and adequate greenery. “We don’t need concrete or paver block pathways,” he added.
A plan to develop a Miyawaki forest in the area was proposed earlier but was dropped following local opposition.