Encroachments such as pushcart eateries, bunk shops and small businesses have taken over pavements along GST Road, especially on the Tambaram Sanatorium stretch, affecting pedestrian movement. Despite periodic eviction drives, many vendors return, residents said.
To address the issue, Tambaram Corporation has announced a major drive to clear encroachments and beautify pedestrian pathways along the 12-km GST Road stretch within its limits. Officials said notices have been issued to around 300 shops and commercial establishments asking them to vacate the pavements.
After the encroachments are removed, the corporation plans to rebuild the footpaths using paver blocks to create a safer walking space. Officials said the proposed ₹96 lakh upgrade will also include improved street lighting and installation of CCTV cameras for better monitoring and public safety.
Residents, however, raised concerns about maintenance and enforcement. V Saritha of the Ganesh Nagar Residents’ Welfare Association said earlier beautification works in Chromepet and Pallavaram left the area messier, with overgrown plants and poor upkeep.
Advocate and Chromepet resident K Arun Srinivasan pointed to stretches such as Radha Nagar, where he said more than 100 fast-food stalls operate on pavements during peak evening hours. He urged inspections by the food safety department, citing unhygienic cooking conditions and lack of action despite complaints to traffic police.
