Chennai is steadily moving toward a greener mobility future, and a recent proposal highlights this shift clearly. The city plans to allocate 500 sq ft of the Somasundaram Corporation Ground in Thyagaraya Nagar (T Nagar) to install an Electric Vehicle (EV) charging station—a move aimed at strengthening the growing EV infrastructure network. However, this development has sparked public debate, especially among residents who use the ground for daily recreation and sports.
Somasundaram Ground is more than just an open space. Located centrally in T Nagar, it has long served as a vital recreational spot for residents of Rajachar Street, Somasundaram Street, and nearby neighbourhoods. Every day, hundreds gather here to play cricket, exercise, and enjoy informal sports activities—free and without restrictions. Over time, however, this open ground has gradually shrunk due to various upgrades, including the construction of a basketball court. The latest proposal has intensified concerns about losing yet another portion of this precious public space.
The plan is part of a larger initiative to expand EV charging infrastructure across Chennai. With electric vehicle adoption rising sharply, the Tamil Nadu Green Energy Corporation Limited (TNGECL) asked the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) to identify government-owned land across the city for charging points. GCC subsequently shortlisted 15 locations, including beaches, parks, eco-parks, art galleries, and playgrounds. Each charging station, including the one proposed for Somasundaram Ground, would occupy around 500 sq ft and support charging for two cars and three two-wheelers at a time.
While the move aligns with sustainable mobility goals, it has not been welcomed unanimously. Long-time players and residents argue that free-to-access grounds like Somasundaram remain one of the few open spaces left in the area. For many, especially youth and low-income residents, commercial turf grounds—charging ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 per session—are unaffordable. “I’ve been coming here for 28 years to play cricket and exercise. The civic body should choose another location,” said resident K. Udhay Kumar. Another regular player, Jagan, echoed this sentiment, stressing that this space is the community’s only sporting oasis.
In response to public objections, Deputy Mayor M. Magesh Kumaar stated that the proposal has been paused at its initial stage and awaits further discussion. While the city recognises the urgency of expanding EV infrastructure, officials now face the task of balancing sustainability with community needs.
The coming months will reveal whether Chennai finds a middle ground—one that supports cleaner transportation without compromising public space and local lifestyle.
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