Chennai, Aug 24:
Residents of Saidapet have urged the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) and Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) to reopen the renovated Amma Park, which has remained closed despite completion of renovation work.
Residents said the renovation was completed about two months ago, but the park has not yet been opened to the public. They have been unable to use the facility for more than a year and are now planning a protest demanding its immediate reopening.
The Amma Park Users Association said the facility had earlier attracted more than 800 visitors every day. Children, senior citizens and other residents used the park for walking, jogging, exercise and recreation.
Association secretary Saidai J Kathir said a representation had been submitted to the Saidapet MLA about a month ago seeking the reopening of the park, but no progress had been made.
Residents are currently travelling to parks in Ashok Nagar and KK Nagar for their daily walks and recreational activities.
The CMDA began renovation of the park in August 2025 at a cost of ₹2.91 crore. The upgraded facility includes modern play equipment, a renovated skating court and badminton court, seating areas, walking and jogging tracks, a refurbished fountain, restrooms, a small science park and outdoor fitness equipment.
Residents from Theeder Nagar, Samiyar Thottam, West Saidapet, Panneerselvam Nagar and Sekar Nagar are among those dependent on the facility. They have particularly stressed the need to reopen the park for children and youngsters seeking access to sports and outdoor activities.
The association, along with Makkal Needhi Maiyam functionaries, is planning a protest in the coming days.
A GCC official said a joint inspection involving the GCC, CMDA and the Saidapet MLA had been conducted about a month ago. The official said the park would be inaugurated once the CMDA confirms the date.4.