TIRUCHY: Over two years have passed since the construction of a multipurpose office in all 65 wards of the city found mention in the corporation budget but only four have become functional so far. Complaining that the pace of construction of the office, which includes dedicated space for the respective ward councillor, limits their interaction with the local residents and address public grievances, councillors urge the civic body to complete and throw open all offices by the end of December.
While the corporation's 2023-24 budget first announced the construction of multipurpose ward office in all the wards at a total cost of Rs 16.2 crore, the project was subsequently put on hold. Following councillors’ demand to commence the project without further delay, the civic body about a year ago floated tenders for the construction of the multipurpose office in each ward at an estimate of Rs 25 lakh. It also identified land parcels in each ward for the construction. The funds are drawn from the corporation's general fund.
According to officials, the proposed office complex will include dedicated spaces for the ward councillor, sanitary inspector and sanitary supervisor. An e-seva centre and a storeroom for sanitary workers are also part of the design. While officials said the office is intended to strengthen coordination among residents, elected representatives and corporation staff working at the ward level, it has been completed in construction in only 13 wards. Out of the 13, only four have become functional.
Work on construction of the office in the remaining wards continues, the pace of which is affected mainly due to the delay in the release of funds by the corporation, officials said. Councillors say the lack of dedicated office space is making it difficult for them to interact with local residents regularly.
They also raised the matter during a recent council meeting, demanding to expedite construction work. Ward 23 councillor K Suresh Kumar said, "The delay in completing the offices is impacting our daily work and the timely resolution of civic issues. Without an office, several councillors are forced to meet people at home or interact with them on the phone. In my ward, only about 75% of the office has been completed in construction. Due to delays in releasing payments, the project work was suspended for two months. I expect the office to be opened at least before January 2026. It also enables better record-keeping of complaints and follow-ups, which is difficult to manage informally."
Meanwhile, K Sadham, a resident of Beema Nagar, said, "It is difficult for us to get timely help when there is no proper office. We end up calling the councillor or visiting their home, which is not convenient for everyone. Sometimes, we are unable to meet them." When enquired, a senior corporation official told TNIE, "There is some fund shortage. However, the offices are under construction and we are taking measures to open them before the dawn of 2026."
