The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) will increase the councillor’s fund to ₹80 lakh to improve waste management.
Valasaravakkam Zone (XI) Chairperson V. Rajan called for an increase in the allocation from ₹60 lakh to ₹80 lakh, and use of additional funds for purchasing bobcats (compact loading vehicles), to curb open dumping.
“These machines will reduce the need for manpower, and could be helpful during floods,” Mr. Rajan said.
He recommended the increase when asked how they would meet the operational and maintenance costs of the machinery at the recent council meeting.
He further said the machines in the current fleet were inadequate, and that bobcats were in high demand across various zones as they could be used to clear construction debris and desilt canals.
The GCC assigns one vehicle per unit, covering five wards, but these vehicles are often sent to different locations based on complaints.
“When a complaint reaches the Commissioner, the vehicle is sent to that location. If the Mayor receives another, it is sent elsewhere,” he said.
Councillors have raised concern that the shortage of machinery hindered swift response and delayed removal of debris.
Deputy Mayor M. Magesh Kumaar pointed out that the GCC had promised to deploy a bobcat for each ward, but had failed to do so.
Mayor R. Priya acknowledged the growing demand for vehicles and equipment related to cleaning operations.
Published – November 07, 2025 12:29 am IST
