Political leaders, fisherfolk oppose choice of Pattinapakkam as site for Tamil Nadu’s new Secretariat
Political leaders in Tamil Nadu are opposing the government's plan to build a new Secretariat in the congested Pattinapakkam area. Critics argue the site lacks sufficient space and will exacerbate traffic issues while negatively impacting the livelihoods of local fishing communities.
Why it matters
The debate highlights the tension between urban development, infrastructure planning, and the protection of local community interests in rapidly growing metropolitan areas.
PMK president Anbumani Ramadoss on Wednesday (September 10, 2026) said the State government’s decision to construct a new Assembly in Pattinapakkam lacked “foresight,” as the area was already congested.
While there was no disagreement over the need for a new Secretariat , the disadvantages of building a secretariat in Pattinapakkam would outweigh the advantages, he said.
“The biggest problem is traffic congestion. Severe congestion already exists on Santhome Road and Pasumpon Muthuramalingam Salai, which is why a loop road has been built to help address the problem. The area is also home to several key buildings including Santhome Church, prominent schools, and the office of the Inspector General of Registration, which attract a large number of people,” he said.
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