Pattinapakkam Secretariat project faces opposition from AIADMK and CPI

AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami has voiced strong opposition to the Tamil Nadu government’s proposal to build a new Secretariat complex at Pattinapakkam. Palaniswami characterized the project as unnecessary given the state's current financial difficulties, specifically questioning the decision to borrow Rs 1,200 crore for the construction.

He raised concerns regarding the proposed site along Santhome Road, noting that the area is already heavily congested due to residential neighborhoods, schools, and fishermen's settlements. He argued that a major administrative complex would exacerbate traffic issues and cause significant inconvenience to local residents. Palaniswami suggested that the government should only consider such a project once the state's financial position has improved and should prioritize sites without space or traffic constraints.

In addition to the AIADMK's stance, the Communist Party of India (CPI) has announced a protest at Pattinapakkam scheduled for Saturday. The CPI expressed concerns that the project, located near the Marina, would negatively impact the livelihoods of the fishing community. Meanwhile, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has called for an all-party meeting to discuss the issue.