In Focus – Citizen Matters, Chennai

Will privatisation of waste management make Chennai a cleaner city?

December 5, 2018 Laasya Shekhar

Following the uproar among conservancy workers, the Chennai Corporation has postponed the invitation of bids for privatisation of garbage collection. But what does history say about the effectiveness of such a move?

Lives clouded by dust: Crushing units choke Tirusulam residents

December 4, 2018 Aruna Natarajan

Rock crushing and m-sand units operating in the open and trucks ferrying gravel cause serious pollution and health risks in the Tirusulam area; yet they are also a source of livelihood for residents who often hold their peace for that reason.

Dust, dust everywhere: The ignored pollutant in Chennai’s air

November 30, 2018 Laasya Shekhar

Unchecked industrial pollution and unplanned construction are creating hazardous levels of dust pollution in the city, but authorities are yet to formulate guidelines for compliance with central rules on construction and demolition waste management.

How accessible are Chennai malls for persons with disability?

November 26, 2018 Aruna Natarajan

While ramps and elevators definitely make these spaces of recreation more accessible for all, an informal inspection shows that malls in the city have some way to go before they can provide a holistic and pleasant experience for the differently-abled.

Wake up call for TNSIC: Crack down on inefficiency or remain a toothless body!

November 23, 2018 Laasya Shekhar

The lenient Information Commission in Tamil Nadu has failed to crack down on corrupt and careless Public Information Officers. Over 500 cases were pending enquiry at the end of 2017, up from 135 in 2015. How can the TNSIC change?

New age jobs: How much does your food delivery guy earn?

November 19, 2018 Aruna Natarajan

When was the last time that you were out in the city and did not come across a Swiggy or a Zomato or an UberEats delivery guy? But even as hordes of youth take to these jobs, here’s a balanced look at the perks and pitfalls of working in the sector.

Can electric vehicles check rising carbon emissions in Chennai?

November 2, 2018 Laasya Shekhar

A recent study has ranked Chennai second among all metros in terms of overall vehicular emissions. It also stands second in fuel consumption. Can electric vehicles provide a solution? What could be the ways to expedite the switch?

Horror stories abound as many Chennai hostels flout all norms

October 24, 2018 Aruna Natarajan

Overcrowded, lax in safety and often also unhygienic, unregulated hostels for men and women in the city are crying out for immediate inspection and enforcement of rules.

For the love of rowing: anecdotes from three generations of rowers on Adyar River

October 16, 2018 Laasya Shekhar

Imagine a walk on the Kotturpuram bridge on any morning or evening – a glance below provides a picturesque sight: people shouting in happiness, their row boats on the tranquil waters of Adyar River, free

Who keeps your streets clean? The invisible women of singara Chennai

October 1, 2018 Aruna Natarajan

Ever wondered where all the litter in your streets accumulated through the day and evening disappear the next morning? Meet the women who sweep the streets of Chennai for a pittance, have little by way of of job security and remain largely unseen by all citizens.

Ignorance, corruption or lax policing: What ails PUC checks of Chennai’s 54 lakh vehicles?

September 28, 2018 Aruna Natarajan

Some bribe a centre and get a ‘Pollution Under Control’ certificate. Some take it easy because there’s never any checking anyway, while some are simply unaware. This, in a city that ranks second in the country in terms of polluting emissions from vehicles.

No fans, no cooking arrangement: Inside anganwadis in Chennai’s relocated slums

September 26, 2018 Laasya Shekhar

A recent study exposes the harsh realities of Anganwadi centres in resettlement colonies of Perumbakkam, Navalur and Gudapakkam and the lack of adequate schools in the vicinity.