Thoothukudi parks in need of better upkeep, say residents

Thoothukudi parks in need of better upkeep, say residents

The Thoothukudi Corporation has been taking several measures to restore the city parks, particularly to utilise those park sites that have been cleared from encroachments. However, some of the parks in prominent locations of the city lack adequate infrastructure facilities, including non functional e-toilets, damaged swings and decorative displays.

Around 53 parks are currently in operation in the city. Some of the major parks include Roche Park, Rajaji Park, MGR Park, Umarupulavar Park and Toovipram park. The Corporation also has two pink parks, specifically for women and a senior citizen’s park.

Although these parks have been maintained directly by the Corporation, parks including Umarupulavar Park in Kathirvel Nagar and MGR Park, currently seek attention from the Corporation, to enhance its infrastructure facilities.

Damaged stone benches at Umarupulavar Park in Thoothukudi. | Photo Credit: RAJESH N

Sundaram, a retired army officer from Rajiv Nagar, pointed out the deplorable condition of both men and women toilets in the Umarupulavar Park. “Both the toilet facilities in this park are in an unsanitary condition for the past three months, which needs proper maintenance and immediate repair,” he said.

He noted that there are no taps in the handwash area, along with other concerns such as damaged benches, decorative displays and rusted swing chains.