Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Tuesday launched the pathway for persons with disabilities in Besant Nagar beach near Karl Schmidt memorial. The first such facility in the city was launched in the Marina beach. Thiruvanmiyur beach will also get a pathway for the disabled in six months. “Once CRZ clearance is obtained for Thiruvanmiyur beach, the third pathway for the disabled will be launched there,” said an official.
Persons with disabilities demanded the GCC to post personnel for safety of the persons with disabilities. “The civic body had planned to procure beach wheelchairs but the risk of drowning was high. We will take measures for safety of the visitors,” said an official. CRZ clearance has been obtained from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, issued by the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority(SEIAA), Tamil Nadu dated March 16, 2024. The State government announced a permanent wooden pathway based on the requirement of Disability Rights Alliance (DRA) according to the provisions of Rights of persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
“The estimated cost of the project is Rs.1.61 crore under Singara Chennai 2.0 scheme for the year 2023-24. The length of the pathway is 190 metre, with a width 2.8 metre. The sea deck is 18 m long and 5 m wide. Signages and markings have been provided in the area. Designated parking for persons with disabilities has been provided. Five slots have been earmarked for parking. Containers have been provided for storage of wheelchairs, scoop stretchers. Construction of the pathway was carried out with wood of Red maranti, Babool and Brazilian Ipe wood,” said an official. Chief Minister M.K.Stalin had laid the foundation for the project on August 12, 2024.
On Tuesday, Mr.Udhayanidhi Stalin also renamed Kamdar Nagar First Main Road after singer S.P.Balasubrahmanyam in ward 110, Nungambakkam.
Published - February 12, 2025 12:53 am IST
