Complaints to GCC helpline remain unresolved: residents

A civic issue with complaint number 2025-9320GG registered on helpline 1913 in December about a damaged manhole door on Pantheon Road opposite the museum in Egmore has not been resolved even after a period of 60 days. However, Chennai Corporation officials have closed the complaint, claiming that the repairs have been carried out this week. The official remarks read: “The manhole door to the storm water drain in the above said location was provided.”

While the complaint was closed on Monday, residents were seen walking past the damaged manhole on Thursday, with the road presenting a safety hazard for pedestrians.

Velachery resident S.Kumararaja said he complained on GCC helpline 1913 two months ago about a carcass of a stray dog near a temple in Annai Indira Nagar, Velachery, but the official response was slow. “We had to call workers of Urbaser Sumeet to remove the carcass,” he said.

Federation of OMR Residents Association (FOMRRA) co-founder Harsha Koda said: “We recently had an incident where we complained multiple times since June 2025 and nothing happened. But finally, action was taken last week after much follow up. We usually complain on X where they give us a tracking number.”

Residents said GCC has to sensitise the personnel at the call centre of the 1913 helpline, utilise ICCC better to improve the response, strengthen coordination and advise officials to resolve civic issues without delay. 

AIADMK councillor J.John said around 50% of the complaints registered on GCC helpline 1913 in his ward were closed by GCC officials without repairing the damage. Former councillor S.Mangala Raj said: “Residents have stopped calling helpline 1913 to resolve civic issues because of irresponsible officials.”

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has delayed response to several complaints registered on helpline 1913 and on social media for resolving civic problems in the city.