Chennai corp to begin happiness & recreation wing

Chennai: Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) plans to establish a happiness and recreation wing to encourage sports, arts, cultural and recreational activities for people of all age groups. The civic body has proposed setting up the wing at an estimated cost of 1 crore to improve residents' quality of life by creating more opportunities for leisure and community engagement. The move follows growing concerns over stress, sedentary lifestyles, and excessive screen time, particularly among children and young adults in urban areas.GCC officials said the new wing will promote these activities to enhance the city's overall happiness index. GCC has previously organised cultural events and live match screenings at beaches, which have drawn enthusiastic participation from the public. "We will identify quality public spaces across the city, including neglected or underutilised areas, and revive them. The goal is to build engaging community spaces and reduce drug, alcohol and mobile addiction, especially among youngsters," said GCC superintendent engineer (buildings) P Annadurai.He added that events such as ‘kalai vizha' programmes and cricket match screenings encouraged people to socialise outdoors rather than spend time on their phones. GCC is planning movie screenings, wellness sessions, yoga and Zumba classes, particularly targeting vulnerable groups, as part of a broader recreation plan. "A trip to a multiplex can cost a family around 2,000. Through this initiative, we want to ensure that people from all sections of society have access to recreational activities free of cost. We plan to expand such opportunities citywide by mapping suitable locations and conducting surveys," Annadurai said.Senior citizens are expected to benefit from yoga, walking groups and cultural meet-ups aimed at reducing loneliness and enhancing mental health. "If implemented effectively, the wing can transform neighbourhood spaces into vibrant community hubs, encouraging residents to step outdoors, interact with neighbours and adopt healthier, more active lifestyles," said, P Shanmugam, president of Federation of North Chennai Residents Welfare Associations.