Residents of Woraiyur in Trichy have successfully prompted civic action against the misuse of a vacant plot, which had become a hotspot for alleged drug abuse and anti-social activities. The Trichy Corporation has now cleared the overgrown land and is planning to develop it for public use.
Residents Raise Alarm in Area Sabha
The issue came to the forefront during an area sabha meeting for ward 23, held on December 10. Local residents voiced strong concerns about the vacant site, which belongs to the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department. They reported that youths from nearby areas were assembling there daily to consume intoxicants.
One resident highlighted the severity of the problem, stating that the individuals involved had even damaged some CCTV cameras installed in the vicinity. Tired of the persistent nuisance and potential danger, the community urged the corporation officials to intervene and repurpose the land for a constructive public cause.
Corporation Springs into Action
Responding swiftly to the complaints, the Trichy Corporation cleared the overgrown weeds and bushes and conducted a thorough cleaning of the entire spot. The land in question is a significant piece of property, spread over 8,000 square feet. Historically, it was a water tank decades ago, and it currently belongs to the Draupadi Amman temple in Poonthottam, under the HR&CE's purview.
Councillor K Suresh addressed the residents' pleas, outlining the next steps. He stated that the corporation will formally approach the HR&CE department for a No Objection Certificate (NoC). Once the necessary permissions are secured, the civic body intends to develop the plot into much-needed community facilities.
Future Plans and Community Response
The proposed developments for the land include amenities like a walking track or a public library. This initiative aims to transform a derelict and problematic space into a positive asset for the neighborhood, promoting health and education.
Residents have welcomed the corporation's cleanup effort and the proposed plans. Furthermore, they have urged Councillor Suresh to organize awareness camps aimed at helping youngsters overcome drug addiction. This highlights a community-driven approach that seeks not only to reclaim physical space but also to address the underlying social issue.
The proactive steps taken by the Trichy Corporation and the active participation of Woraiyur residents demonstrate how local governance and community vigilance can collaborate to enhance public safety and urban utility.
