~ Samarth Krishna Kanaksubramaniam
Tiruvallikeni. Historic Triplicane neighborhood. Coastal location. Parthasarathy Temple. Cultural significance. But coastal vulnerability, overcrowding, inadequate sanitation, and heritage erosion are destroying this ancient community's fabric.
👉 Tiruvallikeni's coastal heritage is disappearing—rising seas, overcrowding, and infrastructure decay threaten a neighborhood with centuries of history.
🌊 Coastal Vulnerability
Tiruvallikeni faces serious coastal threats.
Low-lying coastal area vulnerable to flooding
Sea level rise threatening shoreline
Storm surge risks during cyclones
Beach erosion visible
Climate change impacts intensifying
The reality: Coastal communities face existential threats. Flooding increasingly severe. Infrastructure at risk. Livelihoods threatened.
🏚️ Overcrowding & Housing Inadequacy
Triplicane is one of Chennai's most densely populated areas.
Severe overcrowding—families in minimal space
Old buildings deteriorating—safety risks
Sanitation inadequate—shared facilities
Narrow lanes—no expansion possible
Fire safety concerns in dense housing
The consequence: Living conditions compromise health and dignity. Safety constantly at risk.
🚿 Sanitation & Water Challenges
Basic services are strained by density.
Water supply insufficient for population
Sewage systems overwhelmed
Open drains common
Waste collection inadequate
Groundwater contaminated
The health impact: Waterborne diseases common. Children vulnerable. Sanitation-related illnesses endemic.
🏛️ Heritage Erosion
Tiruvallikeni's cultural heritage is threatened.
Historic buildings deteriorating
Traditional communities displaced
Cultural practices disrupted
Heritage sites neglected
Modern development ignoring history
✅ What Tiruvallikeni Needs
Coastal Protection: Sea walls, mangrove restoration, climate adaptation planning, flood resilience infrastructure, early warning systems.
Housing Improvement: In-situ upgrading, building safety enforcement, fire safety measures, adequate ventilation and light.
Sanitation Infrastructure: Water supply upgrades, sewage treatment, drainage improvements, waste management systems.
Heritage Protection: Historic building preservation, cultural space protection, community-led conservation, heritage interpretation.
Community Resilience: Disaster preparedness, evacuation planning, livelihood protection, healthcare access.
💪 Cultural Heritage Matters
Tiruvallikeni's heritage spans centuries. This community deserves protection—both from natural threats and from neglect.
