Chennai: Soon, residents of North Chennai will have a new hangout, replete with access to water sports. Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is developing a 22-acre waterbody near Ernavoor and plans to include niche water sports in the waterbody.According to GCC officials, the Annai Sivagami Nagar pond falls under railway property. Though the civic body obtained in-principle approval to utilize the waterbody under a revenue-sharing arrangement, it is yet to formalize it.
“After the success of boating in Madhavaram and Manali lakes, we wanted to introduce something similar in Ennore. But we wanted something niche. Hence, we are planning kayaking and rowing. The project, expected to be inaugurated in Feb, is aimed at expanding the city’s organized water-based sporting infrastructure,” said Katta Ravi Teja, regional deputy commissioner (North), GCC.The civic body intends to create basic public amenities, including a waiting hall, toilets, and ticketing facilities. “We are also planning a walking track and food court. There are also ideas to provide coaching for water sports. This will benefit youngsters in the locality, as they can train and excel in it,” said a corporation official.A V S Marimuthu, co-convenor of north Chennai people rights federation, said that this is a much-needed facility. “Activities such as rowing and kayaking are usually out of bounds for middle- and low-income groups. If the corporation introduces it, many will benefit. The training fees should also be nominal,” he said.Residents also added that the facility should be maintained properly. “This is of utmost importance. North Chennai is developing fast. We need such green spaces too,” said Suresh Kumar, a resident of Ennore.
