Chennai: Anna Nagar’s iconic Tower Park may lose one acre of land if Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) agrees to Tamil Nadu Housing Board’s (TNHB) plans ‘to reclaim land currently under GCC’s control’. TNHB has sought the transfer of nearly an acre within the 15-acre green space.Officially called Dr Visvesvaraya Tower Park, the landmark is known for its 135-foot, 12-storey tower designed by architect Yahya Merchant. The park was inaugurated in 1968 by then vice-president V V Giri and chief minister C N Annadurai.The disputed parcel is located opposite a two-acre pond that GCC is rejuvenating for ₹3.5 crore using MLA funds. According to corporation zonal officials, a proposal to build a public toilet on the site has been stalled due to the ownership issue. “TNHB has sent us a letter. We are collecting details to respond,” a GCC official said.Sources in TNHB said that they have rolled out a state-wide initiative to identify land parcels that originally belonged to the board. “If GCC commissioner G S Sameeran says the corporation wants to retain the land, we will place the request in the board and hand it over to them. We are not going to snatch it away as it is for the public,” said a senior official.TNHB has sent similar letters to other departments as well. “Most of them are yet to respond, including GCC commissioner. According to land use, it falls under recreation zone,” said a TNHB official. “Based on the response, TNHB will decide the further course of action,” he added.Anna Nagar MLA V K Ramkumar said he had spoken to TNHB officials. “I will not allow the takeover of the land parcel. This is the only green space we have. I have requested them to keep redevelopment plans, if any, on hold,” he said.Residents have expressed concern over the future of the park. Sandhya V of federation of Anna Nagar residents’ association said they would oppose any move that reduces the park’s extent. “We do not want the park to shrink. I am prepared to protest if necessary. Hundreds of visitors throng the park every day,” she said.
