T.N. Finance Minister reviews development works, stresses inter-departmental coordination

Finance, Planning and Development Minister N. Marie Wilson on Thursday spoke on the need for coordination among the Greater Chennai Corporation, Tamil Nadu Electricity Board, Water Resources Department, Public Works Department, Highways Department, Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board, Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority and Fisheries Department to ensure timely completion of ongoing projects in the Dr. Radhakrishnan Nagar Assembly constituency.

Chairing a review meeting with officials at the Tondiarpet zonal office, the Minister said inter-departmental coordination was essential to avoid delays in development works and improve project execution, according to a press release.

With the Northeast monsoon approaching, he asked officials to expedite stormwater drain construction, canal desilting and other flood-mitigation measures, the release added.

He also instructed various departments to strengthen power infrastructure maintenance, ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply, improve sewerage systems and accelerate the implementation of projects intended for public use. Police officials were asked to enhance law-and-order measures, intensify anti-drug enforcement efforts and ensure smooth traffic management across the constituency.

Mr. Marie Wilson further called for periodic review meetings to identify and remove obstacles affecting project implementation and facilitate faster completion of works.

Earlier, the Minister conducted a surprise inspection at Chennai Higher Secondary School in Patel Nagar, where he reviewed classroom and sanitation facilities and interacted with students. Officials from various civic and government departments participated in the meeting.

Railway bridge

A new railway overbridge at the Korukkupet Railway Level Crossing 2A on Ennore High Road was inaugurated by the Minister as well.

The 450-metre-long, 11-metre-wide flyover project, worth ₹75 crore under the Infrastructure and Amenities Fund, will also have service roads and a five-metre-wide pedestrian pathway. This was expected to ease congestion and improve connectivity in North Chennai, and enable smooth movement of around 25,000 vehicles a day, according to a press release. H.R. Kaushik, Regional Deputy Commissioner (Central), and other officials were present.