Chennai Mayor announces completion of 40 budget initiatives

Chennai's Mayor R. Priya announced that 40 of the 82 plans made in last year's budget have been implemented. The key focuses were improving roads, beautifying the city, restoring water bodies, and upgrading infrastructure. Road projects are currently ongoing throughout the city. However, the decision to purchase machines for pothole repairs has been canceled, as renting them is seen as more cost-effective. Other ongoing initiatives include building entranceways, beautifying parks, and modernizing cremation facilities. The Greater Chennai Corporation has worked on 4,750 roads and footpaths, with 1,114 projects completed to date. The total estimated cost is around ₹404 crore. Funds from the State Finance Commission have also been allocated for road improvements, ensuring progress on various projects. In terms of beautification, several flyovers are being upgraded, and work is underway on the Central Buckingham Canal. Eight water bodies are being restored for a cost of ₹10 crore, with plans to further improve nine more. Additionally, repairs using waterproofing technology are happening at 201 schools, with 22 already completed. New signboards have been installed in various schools, and efforts are being made to plant 250,000 saplings to improve air quality. While some initiatives like mobile veterinary vaccination vehicles and school uniforms are still pending, the Corporation remains committed to enhancing the city's infrastructure and environment.