GCC to build two sponge parks in Thiruvottiyur for nearly Rs 10 crore

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is set to develop two eco-bloc-based sponge parks at existing playgrounds in the neighbourhoods of Burma Nagar (ward 16) and Jothi Nagar (ward 4) in Thiruvottiyur, Chennai. The initiative, which will cost nearly Rs 10 crore, aims to address long-standing waterlogging issues and improve rainwater storage in these zones. The funding for the two projects will be sourced from the GCC’s capital fund.

While the plans have been drawn up, the official timeline to appoint contractors and begin the actual physical work on the ground is currently unclear. The project at Burma Nagar has been proposed at an estimated cost of about Rs 4.99 crore, while the second sponge park at the Jothi Nagar playground is slated to come up at a cost of about Rs 4.995 crore.

Local representatives have welcomed the initiative, pointing out the severe challenges faced by residents during the monsoon season. A Rajendran, the DMK councillor for the zone, explained that the sponge park was a crucial requirement because several parts of Thiruvottiyur continue to face heavy water stagnation during rains. He noted that water has been stagnating for years at areas such as Burma Nagar and Manali’s Sadayappan Kuppam, expressing hope that this park helps address the persistent problem.

In Ward 4, the Jothi Nagar playground park is expected to provide multiple benefits to the local community. CPM councillor R Jayaraman stated that the park will help store rainwater and increase recreational activities. He also noted that residents in the area want more play equipment and better infrastructure in the ward, which the development of this park could support.

The proposed parks will utilize specialized eco-bloc technology to manage heavy rainfall. Under this system, water storage systems are installed to temporarily hold excess rainwater. The stored water is then allowed to be absorbed into the ground at a controlled pace, which reduces surface runoff and helps prevent waterlogging on the streets.