On paper and ground, the smartness is poles apart
Reason: The firm that took a five-year contract for maintenance did nothing to keep the poles working. Yet, no one has been taken to task and penalised for lapses.
These poles are equipped with SOS emergency buttons, CCTV cameras, Wi-Fi, and public announcement systems, and were meant to act as support systems, especially for women and children in distress. But today, they lie unused, ignored, and in many places, broken.
Installed in 2021 by Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) in busy public spaces, the poles lost their purpose initially due to lack of awareness among the public and later due to non-maintenance by authorities.
A smart pole near the pedestrian complex on Thyagaraya Road is surrounded by vendors, and its SOS button does not work. CCTV cameras are missing, and there is no visible Wi-Fi signal. Another on Venkatanarayana Road is in a similar condition, with its emergency call button broken.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025
Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List
Undo
Other poles located in areas like Natesan Park, GN Chetty Road, Cathedral Road, and West Mambalam have also conked out, with damaged or missing parts.
You Can Also Check:
Chennai AQI
|
Weather in Chennai
|
Bank Holidays in Chennai
|
Public Holidays in Chennai
The civic body had announced free Wi-Fi access for 30 minutes a day. But when TOI tried connecting to the poles in T Nagar and near Semmozhi Poonga, the network was unavailable. The smart pole project had a five-year maintenance contract, but officials say it wasn't enforced.
"We are fining the contractor for the lack of upkeep," said the GCC official.
When contacted, GCC commissioner J Kumaragurubaran said, "The poles are outdated. People have adapted to the 5G network, which can never be compared to public Wi-Fi. GCC is not looking to invest more in renovating the smart pole system, but the CCTVs in disrepair might be replaced."
Residents lament that the public was not properly informed about the services available through these smart poles.
According to GCC data, 2,594 residents used the services in the first month of its installation.
Several poles are located close to police stations. On Marina Beach, the smart pole near the lighthouse is just five minutes away from the D5 police station, while another near Ezhilagam is three minutes from the D6 Anna Square police station. In Thiruvanmiyur, the pole is right next to a police booth. The one outside Ripon Buildings is only a four-minute walk from Periamet police station.
With police presence nearby, residents question the need for an SOS button that connects to the same places they can walk to.
"For almost a year, I thought these smart poles were water dispensers. There's a bunk shop on Semmozhi Poonga bus stop on Cathedral Road. I've been using this road for many years, and I didn't know the GCC was providing free Wi-Fi through these poles," said P Saritha, a regular commuter.
A Virgil, a gender lab expert, said, "The smart poles project has great features, on paper, but in reality, people are not aware of the usage. A community survey should be conducted by GCC to sensitise people before implementing such projects."
The smart pole initiative was inaugurated during the AIADMK tenure, said deputy mayor M Mahesh Kumar. "Measures will be taken to ensure that the CCTVs, and Wi-Fi are functional on the smart poles," he added.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
29 minutes ago
- Time of India
NU launches community outreach initiative to connect with neighbouring village schools
Rajgir: Nalanda University (NU) has launched a new community outreach initiative — Sahbhagita Samvad — a participatory dialogue aimed at building deeper connections with the surrounding academic ecosystem. The first edition of this dialogue witnessed the presence of over 20 principals, headmasters, headmistresses, and teachers from some of the most prominent govt and private schools in the region. Participants included representatives from Kendriya Vidyalaya, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Saraswati Vidya Mandir (Rajgir), RDH High School, Primary School (Pilkhi), Chakrapani Residential School, among others. Faculty members of Nalanda University, along with eminent author and scholar Venkataraman Rao, participated in the discussions as a special invitee. The event began with a warm reception followed by the welcome address by Chaturvedi and a brief introduction to the dialogue by the media and communications team of the university. The participants engaged in candid and insightful discussions around multiple themes such as student upskilling, career counselling, practical learning like through solar and water management systems at Nalanda University, waste management, and the growing need for mentorship in schools. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo In his address, Chaturvedi said, "This Sahbhagita Samvad reflects the spirit of ancient Nalanda University. It's about our commitment to community engagement and shared learning. Just as ancient Nalanda thrived through vibrant exchanges with surrounding villages, through this initiative, we seek to rekindle that our mutual cooperation. By connecting with you all, we are trying to uphold our historical legacy again and create pathways for inclusive and transformative education rooted in local Indian contexts. " He also announced that regular campus visits would be facilitated for local institutions, guests, visitors and that specialized workshops for school students will be introduced soon. The event concluded with felicitations by the VC and a formal vote of thanks delivered by the registrar of the university. Rajgir: Nalanda University (NU) under the leadership of its vice chancellor, Sachin Chaturvedi, has launched a new community outreach initiative — Sahbhagita Samvad — a participatory dialogue aimed at building deeper connections with the surrounding academic ecosystem. The first edition of this dialogue witnessed the presence of over 20 principals, headmasters, headmistresses, and teachers from some of the most prominent govt and private schools in the region. Participants included representatives from Kendriya Vidyalaya, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Saraswati Vidya Mandir (Rajgir), RDH High School, Primary School (Pilkhi), Chakrapani Residential School, among others. Faculty members of Nalanda University, along with eminent author and scholar Venkataraman Rao, participated in the discussions as a special invitee. The event began with a warm reception followed by the welcome address by Chaturvedi and a brief introduction to the dialogue by the media and communications team of the university. The participants engaged in candid and insightful discussions around multiple themes such as student upskilling, career counselling, practical learning like through solar and water management systems at Nalanda University, waste management, and the growing need for mentorship in schools. In his address, Chaturvedi said, "This Sahbhagita Samvad reflects the spirit of ancient Nalanda University. It's about our commitment to community engagement and shared learning. Just as ancient Nalanda thrived through vibrant exchanges with surrounding villages, through this initiative, we seek to rekindle that our mutual cooperation. By connecting with you all, we are trying to uphold our historical legacy again and create pathways for inclusive and transformative education rooted in local Indian contexts. " He also announced that regular campus visits would be facilitated for local institutions, guests, visitors and that specialized workshops for school students will be introduced soon. The event concluded with felicitations by the VC and a formal vote of thanks delivered by the registrar of the university.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
From Gedun Drupa to Tenzin Gyatso: A look at all the 14 Dalai Lamas so far
As the 14th Dalai Lama marked his 90th birthday, the world reflects on the lineage of his predecessors. From Gedun Drupa, a scholar, to Thupten Gyatso, a moderniser, each Dalai Lama shaped Tibet's spiritual and political landscape. Their lives, marked by scholarship, leadership, and sometimes tragedy, form a sacred tradition. As the 14th Dalai Lama , Tenzin Gyatso, turned 90 on July 6, 2025, he became the longest-living Dalai Lama in Tibetan history. His extraordinary life has drawn attention and popularity not only for his teachings on compassion and peace but also for the ancient tradition he represents. Rooted in the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism , the Dalai Lama is believed to be the reincarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. Each Dalai Lama is identified as the spiritual successor of his predecessor, through a process of visions, prophecies, and ritual examinations of young children across Tibet and beyond. From nomadic beginnings, royal ties, monastic scholarship, to global advocacy, the 14 Dalai Lamas have helped shape Tibet's spiritual and political history over six centuries. Some served long, influential lives, while others passed away tragically young. Together, their stories have a sacred tradition that continues to guide Tibetan Buddhism today. And on this occasion of the 90th birthday of the current Dalai Lama, the world now waits to see how the 15th Dalai Lama will be chosen. It's the perfect time to look back at the lives of the 13 spiritual predecessors who paved the way for Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Urban Ascent by Emaar- 4 BHK Homes Starting at ₹ 5.25Cr* Emaar India Get Quote Undo Gedun Drupa Born in 1391 into a nomadic family in Tsang, Gedun Drupa was a bright monk who studied under Tsongkhapa, founder of the Gelugpa school. He established Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in 1447, which became a major centre for learning. He passed away peacefully in 1474 at 84, leaving behind a legacy of deep scholarship and devotion. Gedun Gyatso Born in 1475 near Shigatse, Gedun Gyatso showed signs of being the First Dalai Lama's reincarnation by age two, as he remembered his past life. Being recognised at 11, he revived the Great Prayer Festival and led both Drepung and Sera Monasteries. His dedication helped expand Gelugpa teachings. He died in 1542 at age 67, after a life of steady religious leadership. Sonam Gyatso Born in 1543 in Tolung, Sonam Gyatso was recognised at age three. He became abbot of major monasteries and founded the Dalai Lama's monastery, Namgyal. In 1578, Mongol ruler Altan Khan gave him the title 'Dalai Lama,' meaning 'Ocean of Wisdom.' He died in Mongolia in 1588, spreading Buddhism far beyond Tibet. Yonten Gyatso Born in 1589 in Mongolia, Yonten Gyatso was the grandson of Altan Khan. Though his journey to Tibet was delayed, he eventually studied in Lhasa and became abbot of major monasteries. His reign was short-lived, as he died in 1617 at just 27> He was the youngest Dalai Lama to serve during adulthood. Lobsang Gyatso Born in 1617, Lobsang Gyatso, the Fifth Dalai Lama, unified Tibet spiritually and politically with Mongol support. He began building the iconic Potala Palace and met the Qing Emperor in 1649. He was a skilled reformer and diplomat; his 1682 death was kept secret for 15 years to ensure national stability and finish the Potala's construction. Tsangyang Gyatso Born in 1683 in present-day Arunachal Pradesh, Tsangyang Gyatso preferred poetry and taverns over monastic life. He renounced his vows early but won the public's heart with his romantic verses. Although he was disliked by the ruling elite, he was taken to China in 1706, but died mysteriously on the way. His short life remains legendary. Kelsang Gyatso Kelsang Gyatso, born in 1708 in Lithang, was a wise and peaceful leader who brought calm to Tibet after years of unrest. Fully appointed in 1726, he preferred a spiritual life but still played a key role in governance by forming the Kashag in 1751. He died in 1757, remembered for his steady leadership and quiet strength. Jamphel Gyatso Born in 1758 in Lhari Gang, Jamphel Gyatso was enthroned at the Potala Palace and ordained young. He contributed to Tibetan architecture by building Norbulingka, the summer residence of the Dalai Lamas. A calm and studious leader, he died in 1804 at 47 and is remembered for strengthening spiritual practice in everyday life. Lungtok Gyatso Lungtok Gyatso was born in 1805 in Kham and was quickly identified as the reincarnation of the 8th Dalai Lama. Enthroned in 1810, he showed spiritual promise but tragically died in 1815 at just nine years old. Though his time was brief, many believed he had a special presence and deep wisdom beyond his years. His early death was a heartbreaking moment for Tibet, leaving a spiritual void and delaying the continuity of leadership. Tsultrim Gyatso Tsultrim Gyatso was born in 1816 and became the Tenth Dalai Lama at age six. He was fully ordained in 1835. Despite his young age, he took his role seriously and worked to restore the Potala Palace, preserving an important part of Tibet's cultural and spiritual heritage. He passed away in 1837 at only 21 years old. Though his years were few, his commitment to preserving tradition and upholding the responsibilities of his role left a quiet but meaningful legacy in Tibetan history. Khedrup Gyatso Khedrup Gyatso was born in 1838 and recognised shortly after. Ordained young, he assumed leadership in uncertain times. While his role was largely symbolic, he carried the spiritual lineage forward. He passed away in 1856 at the age of 18, one of several Dalai Lamas to die tragically young. Trinley Gyatso Born in 1856, Trinley Gyatso was brought to Lhasa in 1858, and began official duties in 1873. Though he worked to strengthen the Tibetan government, he died suddenly in 1875 at just 20. His short life included a century of political instability and challenges to the Dalai Lama's temporal role. Thupten Gyatso Thupten Gyatso, born in 1876, was a powerful force for change. He attained the title in 1895. He resisted foreign interference and modernised Tibet's military, schools, and health system. Exiled in India, he embraced modern ideas while also preserving Tibet's spiritual heart. He died in 1933 and is considered a visionary who paved the way for his successor.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Weekly Horoscope (July 07 – July 13): Predictions for Dog Chinese Zodiac
Dog people are loyal and caring, but often forget their own limits. This week, creating thoughtful boundaries will help you feel freer. Saying no is not unkind when said with peace. Give yourself space to breathe. When you set healthy lines, respect follows. Do not try to carry everyone's weight. A simple limit now will give you peace later. Protect your time, heart and energy. Weekly Career Horoscope for Dog Chinese Zodiac In career, you may be asked to take extra work or support someone. Say yes only if your heart agrees. Do not feel guilty to set limits. You can do quality work when your space is respected. Speak gently but firmly if you need space. This week, your calm boundary makes others take you seriously. Respect at work begins when you respect your own needs. Weekly Love Horoscope for Dog Chinese Zodiac In love, you may be giving too much and expecting too little. This creates imbalance. It is time to speak your needs. Love grows stronger when both partners feel safe and equal. If single, don't accept less than what you truly want. A healthy boundary will help the right person to see your value. Giving love is good, but receiving it rightly is also important. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo Weekly Money Horoscope for Dog Chinese Zodiac Financially, you may need to say no to someone asking for money or help. Think calmly before giving. Generosity is good, but your stability matters first. Set financial limits and communicate clearly. A smart boundary will prevent future burden. This week, careful decisions lead to better peace of mind. Protecting your money with kind limits is not selfish, it is wise. Weekly Education Horoscope for Dog Chinese Zodiac Dog students may be helping friends too much or studying with distractions. Create a space just for study. Say no to what disturbs your focus. Your mind needs calm to grow. If group study is not working, shift to solo time. This week, progress will come when you choose quality over pleasing others. Boundaries help your learning stay strong and peaceful. Weekly Health Horoscope for Dog Chinese Zodiac Your back or legs may feel tired from doing too much. Rest is needed. Don't force yourself to keep going when body says no. Mental tiredness also builds when you forget your own needs. Say no to overwork. Take slow walks, drink warm fluids, and rest early. Stretching and gentle massage may help. Healing comes when you stop crossing your limits. This week, protect your space. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
