The Madras High Court has questioned the Greater Chennai Corporation’s failure to provide adequate motorable roads and encroachment-free footpaths despite collecting property tax, water tax, licence fees and other charges from residents.
A division bench comprising Justice SM Subramaniam and Justice R Rajesh Vivekananthan made the observation while hearing a writ petition filed by Saju Alex, a resident of Scheme Road in Ellaiamman Colony, Teynampet. The petition sought action against encroachments, illegal parking and unauthorised automobile repair works on the road.
The court said Chennai’s basic civic amenities remained “grossly inadequate” even as taxes and statutory charges were periodically increased. It also observed that civic authorities must show the same urgency in providing infrastructure as they do in taking action against citizens who fail to pay taxes and other charges.
The observations place road quality and pedestrian access within the broader responsibility of municipal administration. Motorable roads affect daily travel and access for vehicles, while encroachment-free footpaths are essential for pedestrians. The petition before the court specifically links these concerns to the use and condition of a road in Teynampet.
The Greater Chennai Corporation and other authorities have been asked to file an action-taken report and details of proposed measures for improving infrastructure and ensuring encroachment-free footpaths in Chennai and surrounding areas. The court granted two weeks for the submission.
The proceedings also bring attention to the gap between civic revenue collection and the visible quality of neighbourhood infrastructure. The court’s direction requires the authorities to set out the measures being taken, rather than only respond to individual complaints about encroachments, parking or roadside commercial activity.
The matter was adjourned to October 10, when the court is expected to consider the authorities’ response and the proposed measures for improving roads and footpaths.
