T.N. Assembly election: Villivakkam, a densely-populated urban area faces civic gaps despite infrastructure push

Villivakkam, a prominent urban constituency in the city, presents a mix of long-established, densely-populated low-income residential areas, an industrial cluster, and rapidly expanding middle-class areas, some of which have given way to apartment complexes in recent years.

Home to a diverse electorate, comprising working-class sections, government employees, and small business owners, the constituency reflects Chennai’s evolving socio-economic landscape. It has retained its distinct character, with a significant working-class population shaping its identity. Once the largest constituency in the city, Villivakkam has shrunk in size as many constituencies, including Ambattur, Kolathur, Madhavaram, Maduravoyal, and Virugambakkam, were carved out of it following the delimitation process.

Traffic congestion, lack of green spaces, gyms, and playgrounds are some of the key issues highlighted by Villivakkam’s residents. File
| Photo Credit:
Akhila Easwaran

Villivakkam has traditionally witnessed a strong presence of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)), and the parties have won the Assembly election seven times since 1977.

Rapid development

In the past five years, the constituency has undergone various improvements in terms of addressing key civic challenges of flooding, better healthcare facilities, and creation of new infrastructure facilities such as community halls and storm-water drains. However, residents flag some basic issues remain unresolved. Besides Villivakkam and Ayanavaram, parts of Anna Nagar Western Extension fall within this constituency. The long-neglected Villivakkam lake has undergone restoration but is yet to be opened to the public.

Eugin J.B. of Villivakkam said many evicted residents of areas, including those from Bharathi Nagar, Sathya Nagar, and Malligai Cheri near MTH Road, were yet to be provided with house-site patta documents. While pointing out that the constituency has many community halls and a renovated playground in Agathiyar Nagar, he said there was scope for improvement and a 24-hour government hospital would be a welcome facility.

Traffic congestion, lack of green spaces, gyms, and playgrounds, the need for improved transport connectivity, and the replacement of ageing sewer network continue to dominate public discourse, along with the rising cost of essential goods. While residents have welcomed the ongoing work to expand Metro Rail connectivity through the Phase II Project, they pointed out that the construction had disrupted existing public transport systems and caused significant inconvenience.

S. Prabhakaran of Villivakkam Exnora said: “We need more small buses to connect North Red Hills Road, Rajaji Nagar, and ICF and buses to areas such as Kilambakkam. Many commuters have been put to hardship after the closure of the Villivakkam Bus Terminus for Metro Rail work. More bus shelters are needed on North Red Hills Road.”

Voters also raised concern over the stray cattle menace in places including South Mada Street and sewage overflow on Perumal Koil North Mada Street, a bustling vending zone.

Space for street vendors

Lalitha R., a vegetable vendor, said, “I often face issues because of roadside vending. Sewage overflow is common during the monsoon. The government must provide a designated market space.”

In Ayanavaram, the growing commercialisation of residential areas has emerged as a key concern. C.V. Amarendran of V.P. Colony pointed to the increase in illegally parked vehicles on roads, disappearing footpaths, and eateries encroaching on roads.

While major political parties are yet to announce candidates, this time too, the constituency is gearing up for a four-cornered battle. The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is expected to replace the Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) in the fray, with initial media reports suggesting that TVK’s general secretary Aadhav Arjuna is likely to contest here. Functionaries of various parties noted that the constituency had a notable fanbase for actor-turned-politician Vijay, which could translate into support for the TVK , particularly among the lower middle-class voters.

C. Martin, Villivakkam secretary, CPI(M), said the DMK-led alliance and the CPI (M) retained a strong hold in the constituency and various development works and welfare schemes undertaken by the ruling party would work in their favour. He cited flood mitigation in Sidco Nagar, construction of primary health centres, and renovation of parks as some of the works that have been implemented so far.

Published – March 20, 2026 12:32 am IST