VILLIVAKKAM

Villivakkam constituency in Chennai witnessed significant political and developmental activity between 2021 and 2026. DMK's A. Vetriazhagan won the 2021 Assembly election with 53.37% of votes (76,127 votes), defeating AIADMK's J.C.D. Prabhakar. The constituency benefited from several state-wide initiatives including the Tamil Nadu government's rural road development program (₹8,000 crore for 20,000 km), the Jal Jeevan scheme providing drinking water to 7.15 lakh rural houses (₹2,123 crore), construction of 2.43 lakh toilets under Swachh Bharat Mission, installation of 3.65 lakh LED streetlights, and addition of 1,384 new classrooms in schools. However, these broader state programs appear to have had limited impact on addressing Villivakkam's specific civic challenges. Despite infrastructure investments, residents faced persistent problems throughout the period. Recurring flooding due to inadequate drainage and overflow of the Otteri Nullah during monsoons, severe traffic congestion exacerbated by ongoing Metro Rail construction, water shortages during summer months, and inefficient garbage management remained major grievances. Critical demands including a 24-hour government hospital, replacement of the aging sewer network, and resolution of patta issues affecting over 2,000 families remained largely unaddressed. Growing concerns about drug abuse among youth and broken election promises led to resident protests demanding better civic services. As the constituency approaches the April 23, 2026 elections, the DMK faces a multi-cornered contest from AIADMK, NTK, and the newly formed Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) led by actor Joseph Vijay, which is gaining traction among younger voters. The sitting MLA has faced criticism for being inaccessible to constituents and failing to address local concerns effectively. Voters should consider both the state-level development initiatives and the persistent civic gaps when evaluating candidates, particularly focusing on healthcare infrastructure, drainage solutions, water supply, and traffic management commitments.