CHENNAI: In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) opened the first of its dedicated lounges for gig workers at Anna Nagar on Wednesday. The facility was inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin from the Ripon Buildings, alongside several other civic projects. GCC commissioner J Kumaragurubaran stated that similar, but larger, lounges are also being planned in Thiruvanmiyur and Villivakkam for construction workers, and another one for gig workers will be opened soon at GN Chetty road in T Nagar.
The Scandinavian-style AC lounge for gig workers at Anna Nagar 3rd avenue will operate 24/7, providing amenities including seating, mobile charging points, drinking water, and toilet facilities.
Taking to X, Chief Minister M K Stalin said, “The lounge along with the parking facility launched in Anna Nagar is a place where a large number of women work.”
Kumaragurubaran stated that the initiative was in response to a request from the Gig Workers Welfare Association. The corporation plans to rope in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds to support the expansion of the project.
Balaji K (53), a food delivery person from Poonamallee, said, “I start my day at 5:30am and travel across the city delivering food until night. I can’t return home for a short break due to the distance, often taking shelter in parks, bus stops, or roadside. This lounge offers us a clean, safe place.”
M Ganesan (50), a bike taxi rider, said,”We constantly use our phones for navigation and battery drain is a major issue. Previously, I had to return home just to charge my phone. Now I can do that here and also take a short break.” Delivery executives said that such facilities can be installed in other parts of the city too.
To prevent misuse, Kumaragurubaran said that CCTV cameras and on-site security personnel will soon be deployed. Ramps will be made to accommodate disabled workers.
While the Anna Nagar unit has been placed along a footpath, a GCC official said that future installations will be done in a way that does not cause obstructions.
GCC has also launched free school buses for Chennai school students in Manali, Ezhil Nagar and Vettuvankeni. Speaking to TNIE, a senior official said, “This is to avoid students waiting for private buses to reach schools and ensure that they come regularly.” All buses have CCTV, seat belts, and security guards.
Meanwhile, Udhayanidhi inaugurated 102 completed projects worth Rs 399.81 crore and laid the foundation stone for 108 new projects worth Rs 975.63 crore. He also provided cash incentives to Class 10 and 12 students who secured top marks in the 2024-25 academic year.