Chennai to Build Free Public Tennis Courts, Democratizing the Sport
In a significant move to make tennis more inclusive, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has announced plans to construct two tennis courts at a public park, offering free access to residents. This initiative aims to break the sport's traditional association with affluence and private clubs, responding to growing demand from enthusiasts across the city.
Pilot Project Location and Details
The pilot project will be established at Thirumalai Nagar Park II and III in Perungudi, with the budget currently being finalized. According to S V Ravichandran, the zonal chairman for Perungudi, tennis court bookings in private clubs come at a premium, while the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) courts are often reserved for professionals. This leaves the common public, especially aspiring young players, with limited opportunities to engage in the sport.
"The sport is otherwise out of the public's reach, though youngsters have aspirations to learn it," Ravichandran explained. "We received numerous requests from tennis enthusiasts, and the project was approved this week to address this gap." The courts will be located in his ward, number 174, marking a community-driven effort to enhance recreational facilities.
Court Specifications and Features
The GCC will install a clay tennis court measuring 78 feet in length, with a width of 27 feet for singles matches and 36 feet for doubles. To ensure usability throughout the day, floodlights will be installed for evening gameplay, and seating space will be provided for spectators. Additionally, a storage room for nets and sports equipment will be constructed to maintain the facilities properly.
Ravichandran emphasized that the courts will initially be free for public use, with a contractor hired for maintenance. However, if demand increases and there is interest in professional training, the GCC may consider outsourcing management to a third party. "For now, it will be free, and we will rope in a contractor to maintain it," he stated, highlighting the focus on accessibility.
Community Response and Future Prospects
B Aravindhan, a tennis player from Anna Nagar, welcomed the initiative but noted that the civic body has maintained only one tennis court at Anna Nagar's Millennium Park for nearly two decades. "It's managed by local clubs and is a basic court," he said. "Maintenance was never an issue, as those who come to play ensured it is kept well." He urged the GCC not to stop with the pilot project and to fast-track similar developments in other areas, citing the presence of players across Chennai.
This project reflects a broader trend towards making sports more accessible in urban areas, addressing the aspirations of youth and promoting physical activity. By providing free facilities, the GCC hopes to foster a more inclusive sporting culture, encouraging participation from all socioeconomic backgrounds.
- The GCC is setting up two free tennis courts in Thirumalai Nagar Park II and III, Perungudi.
- The courts will feature clay surfaces, floodlights, seating, and storage facilities.
- This initiative responds to community demand and aims to make tennis accessible beyond elite circles.
- Future plans may include outsourcing for professional training if demand grows.
- Residents advocate for expanding such projects to other areas of Chennai.
