Latest news with #K.Venkadesan
The Hindu
a day ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
Beach in Nagapattinam town lacks basic amenities despite growing footfall
Despite being one of the most frequented public spaces in the town, the Nagapattinam beach continues to lack essential amenities such as public toilets and drinking water facilities. With a steady footfall of hundreds of visitors—especially families and youth who gather during mornings, evenings, and even late into the night—the absence of basic infrastructure has become a pressing concern for residents and civic activists alike. The beach, known for its calm atmosphere and perceived safety, attracts both local residents and tourists. Volleyball courts on the shore remain active through the day, drawing groups of youngsters and sports enthusiasts. In recent weeks, the district administration has taken steps to revitalise the beachfront by organising weekend programmes to encourage greater public participation. 'Though families visit the beach regularly, there are no facilities for them,' said K. Venkadesan, town secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist). 'There is not a single public toilet or drinking water facility. Even in emergencies, people have to walk at least a kilometre to find water when beachside stalls are shut.' He urged the municipality to immediately install free public toilets and provide access to drinking water, especially in light of the increasing public engagement encouraged by local authorities. When contacted, a senior official from Nagapattinam municipality confirmed that plans are underway to set up toilet facilities and ensure the availability of drinking water on the beach in the near future.
The Hindu
23-06-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
CPI(M) stages protest in Nagapattinam over water supply issues
Alleging irregular drinking water supply and contamination in several parts of the town, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) staged a road blockade at Melakkoyttaivasal in Nagapattinam on Monday. The protest was led by CPI(M) town secretary K. Venkadesan, who said hundreds of residents across multiple municipal wards, including 27, 32, and 33, were affected by poor supply and quality of drinking water. In some areas, residents claimed that sewage water was getting mixed with drinking water or that water received through municipal taps carried a foul odour. 'In Velipalayam, for instance, many households receive water only once in four days. This is unacceptable, especially in a town with ongoing infrastructure projects,' Mr. Venkadesan said. Following talks with municipal officials, the protesters temporarily withdrew their agitation after officials assured prompt action. Official sources said some of the water supply disruptions were due to pipeline damage during ongoing Jal Jeevan Mission works. 'Water will be supplied through tankers to the affected areas in the interim. The Jal Jeevan works are expected to be completed within two months, by which time supply issues will be resolved,' an official said. EOM/
The Hindu
20-06-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Work begins on Urban Primary Health Centre building in Nagapattinam after much delay
Construction work for a new Urban Primary Health Centre (UPHC) building on Marundhu Kothalam Road in Nagapattinam has finally begun, following the demolition of the old and damaged structure last week. This comes after several representations made by residents and civic groups. Two years ago, the UPHC was temporarily shifted to a Health and Wellness Centre on Pazha Street in Ward 30, after the old building was declared unsafe. The temporary location — situated on a narrow and congested stretch — met with criticism because of water stagnation and poor road condition, which made it challenging for patients to reach the facility. Although ₹1.2 crore had been sanctioned under the National Health Mission, the demolition and reconstruction work faced significant delays. Lack of progress prompted several appeals from residents, civil society organisations, and political representatives urging the authorities to expedite the work. K. Venkadesan, town secretary of the CPI(M), said this was the only UPHC serving Nagapattinam town. 'The delay has caused great hardship to the public. The construction must be completed at the earliest without excuses,' he said. Officials from the Health Department said the construction was now under way and was expected to be completed within six months.
