Greater Chennai Corporation painting icons of North Chennai across Vyasarpadi flyover pillars
In order to give Vyasarpadi a facelift, the Greater Chennai Corporation plans to display murals of famous North Chennai personalities in public spaces. Currently, walls and pavements in the area are strewn with political posters and banners of private events. This beautification initiative is being carried out as a part of North Chennai Improvement project.
Regional Deputy Commissioner (RDC) (North) Katta Ravi Teja said that this was being done to promote motivation among people who feel they lack guidance or encouragement, to pursue education and discipline through art. 'Since the icons being painted are from North Chennai itself, the viewers might find their stories relatable,' he added.
Across nine of the 20 pillars of the Vyasarpadi flyover, which connects Basin Bridge Road with neighbouring arterial stretches, painting is underway. The flyover serves as a key transit corridor in North Chennai, and spans 680 meters in length and 15 meters in width. Thousands of commuters pass through this route daily, making these murals highly noticeable, Mr. Teja said.
High achievers
The portraits include those of ₹5-doctor V. Thiruvengadam, who passed away in 2020; V. Dilli Babu, a defence scientist at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), known for his work in defence technology and resource utilisation; and S. Nandakumar, the only player from Tamil Nadu to represent India at the 2023 Intercontinental Cup.
The murals also depict Khazima M. Basha, an 18-year-old carrom player from Kasimedu, who became the youngest world champion by winning the 6th Carrom World Cup in San Francisco in November 2024, and V. Nandakumar, an officer in the Indian Revenue Service (IRS).
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