With Chennai being the traditional hunting ground of the ruling DMK in the electoral arena, Chief Minister MK Stalin on Sunday unveiled the party’s manifesto for the burgeoning city with a ‘Super 6 Promises’ for all-round development to transform the state capital into a world-class metro.
Released at the party headquarters ‘Anna Arivalayam’, the manifesto pledges to provide smart mobility through enhanced bus services and roads, infrastructure development with better community spaces, scientific and humane dog control and the creation of a a global centre of excellence as well as a global talent gateway.
With a view to enhance mobility and provide connectivity to the suburban areas, the DMK promises AI-powered traffic management and the introduction of 1,000 new mini buses to connect the suburbs as well as improve intra-city transport. This is aimed at reducing the travel time by 25 percent. Conscious of the drinking water issue plaguing some areas, especially in summer, the manifesto promises RO facilities wherever Metro Water is not available.
With AI being the buzzword, the DMK pledged to transform Chennai into a technology hub with a futuristic vision. With a Rs 10,000 crore investment, Chennai would be turned into an immersive tech hub for AI, Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Immersive Technologies.
Developing a world-class cultural landmark in Chennai with a dedicated venue for global arts, music and literary events, the DMK assured to enhance and upgrade facilities and community spaces at Urban Habitat Development Board apartments through women-led associations with state funding. High-intensity lights will be installed at all neighbourhoods. Committing itself to complete the ongoing Metro Phase II works within 2028, the party made it clear that all major projects, including Storm Water Drain networks and Underground Sewage works, will be finished within the stipulated deadline.
On dog control, the manifesto promised a three-fold increase in the number of veterinarians and dog catchers under the ABC programme besides expanding shelters under a partnership with NGOs. Later, in a social media post, Stalin claimed, “It is the DMK that’s synonymous with Chennai’s development! Wherever you turn, all the internal infrastructure facilities you see were created by the DMK! Promises for Chennai to ensure this development journey continues.”
Chennai accounts for 16 of the 234 constituencies in the state that are going to the polls on April 23. CM Stalin and his son Udhayanidhi Stalin are seeking re-election from Kolathur and Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni, respectively.