11 hours ago
Nageswara Rao Park to be renovated at a cost of ₹11.64 crore
The Greater Chennai Corporation proposes to renovate the iconic K. Nageswara Rao Pantulu Park, popularly known as Nageswara Rao Park, in Mylapore under the Namakku Naame scheme at an estimated cost ₹11.64 crore.
P.S. Kumaraswamy Raja, Premier of the Madras Presidency, inaugurated the park on October 20, 1949. The Corporation's publication, Caring for Chennai, notes that the park was once a waterbody, called Arathakuttai, and it was gifted to the civic body by private owners for development. The park was named after Kasinathuni Nageswara Rao, better known as Nageswara Rao Pantulu, a freedom-fighter and resident of the area.
Raghunathan, a long-time resident of Mylapore, says the park was serene and calm those days. 'People of all age groups visit this park even now. The implementation of the Metro Rail project has made the park dusty. But I am sure after the renovation and the completion of the Metro Rail project, the park will be among the most attractive spots,' he says.
According to the Corporation, the renovation will be completed in three months. It involves civil infrastructure upgrade, landscaping, installation of new fixtures, and development of pedestrian pathways and play areas.
Baskar Seshadri, a social activist and resident of Mylapore, says the park needs attention in certain areas. 'There is no compound wall on the eastern side. While there is a gym, food kiosks, toilets, and seating are required. They could be located outside the park to prevent littering, without inconveniencing pedestrians,' he says.
