Chennai, Apr 1:
As election campaigning intensifies across Chennai, local issues continue to dominate voter conversations, with residents voicing concerns over everyday challenges that directly impact their lives.
“Traffic is getting worse every year. We spend hours on the road,” said Ramesh, an IT employee from Velachery, pointing to congestion and poor road conditions as key issues. Others highlighted recurring flooding during monsoons and inconsistent drinking water supply.
“Every rainy season, our streets go under water. We need permanent solutions,” said Lakshmi, a resident of North Chennai.
Rising cost of living has also become a major talking point. “Prices have gone up, electricity bills are higher, and property tax has increased. It’s affecting middle-class families the most,” said Suresh, a small business owner.
At tea stalls and roadside shops, political debates are in full swing. “We discuss politics every day here. Everyone has an opinion,” said Murugan, an auto driver. Daily wage workers and office-goers are actively weighing party promises and past performance.
“We are not just listening to speeches; we are comparing what was promised and what was delivered,” said Kavitha, a private company employee.
Youth participation has seen a noticeable rise this election. “We follow campaigns on social media and also attend meetings. This time, we want to vote carefully,” said Pradeep, a first-time voter.
Women voters, meanwhile, are focusing on welfare measures and safety. “Schemes are important, but safety is equally crucial for us,” said Meena, a homemaker.
With large rallies and public meetings underway, security and traffic arrangements have been tightened across the city. “We are managing traffic diversions, but it’s challenging during peak hours,” a traffic police official said.
With polling just weeks away, Chennai’s streets reflect a mix of enthusiasm and scrutiny. “This time, we want real change, not just promises,” said an elderly voter, capturing the mood of a city where every vote is being keenly contested.