CHEPAUK-THIRUVALLIKENI

Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni, a high-profile urban constituency in Chennai, has been represented by Udhayanidhi Stalin (DMK) since his decisive victory in the 2021 Assembly elections with 68.92% of votes. The constituency witnessed significant development initiatives between 2021 and 2026, including the Chennai Metro Phase II expansion (expected operational by 2028), AI-based traffic management systems, RO-purified drinking water installations, and upgrades to Kasturba Gandhi Hospital. Educational infrastructure saw improvements with the opening of the ₹63 crore Muthamilaringnar Kalaignar Arangam auditorium at Presidency College, laptop distribution under the 'World in Your Hands' scheme, and modernization of government schools. Housing projects under TNHB and HUDCO were initiated, alongside smart city initiatives including digital governance and public Wi-Fi zones. Major industrial policies were announced, including the Tamil Nadu Shipbuilding Policy 2026 and a ₹5,300 crore MRF tyre manufacturing plant MoU in 2026, alongside the ₹10,000 crore Global Center of Excellence for AI creating potential employment opportunities. However, persistent civic issues have marred the constituency's progress. Chronic flooding during monsoons, inadequate stormwater drainage, water shortages in summer, poor garbage management, and severe traffic congestion remain unresolved despite being longstanding complaints. Residents in slum areas like Ayodhya Nagar and Mattan Kuppam continue to face eviction fears due to lack of formal land titles, with regularization promises remaining unfulfilled. The stray animal menace, market infrastructure deficiencies in Zam Bazaar, and delayed or stalled infrastructure projects have fueled public dissatisfaction. While major welfare schemes have been implemented, voters express frustration over the gap between announcements and ground-level execution. The constituency, home to symbolic landmarks including the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and Secretariat, faces the 2026 elections scheduled for April 23. Udhayanidhi Stalin, now Deputy Chief Minister, seeks re-election against challenges from AIADMK's Adhi Rajaram, TVK's D. Selvam, and NTK's Ayisha Begum in what is described as a four-cornered contest. Voters should weigh the administration's development initiatives and welfare schemes against the persistent civic neglect affecting daily life, particularly flooding, water supply, sanitation, and traffic issues that have remained unresolved despite five years of governance.