Green makeover for Buckingham canal stretch

Chennai: From walkways to cycling tracks to Miyawaki forests, a stretch of the Buckingham Canal from Kasturba Nagar junction to Thiruvanmiyur is getting new elements at a cost of 45 crore. The initiative, building on successful green upgrades near MRTS stations, aims to boost recreational spaces for residents while enhancing flood resilience and biodiversity through nature-based solutions.The proposed urban greening project will cover a key canal-side stretch that has long remained underutilized despite its strategic location in the city's southern corridor. "The plan focuses on creating a continuous pedestrian walkway and dedicated cycling track, children's play areas and seating facilities to encourage community use," said a senior GCC official.Beyond recreation, the project has a strong environmental focus. Officials highlighted that native saplings will be planted to support local biodiversity, while dense Miyawaki forests will help improve air quality and reduce heat. Nature-based drainage systems are also part of the plan to address frequent flooding concerns in low-lying areas along the canal."Once a vital waterway, the Buckingham Canal has suffered decades of neglect and encroachment. Efforts to revive its edges through such projects are crucial to restoring ecological balance while meeting the city's growing demand for open public spaces," said K Subramanian, an urban planner.With work expected to begin soon, residents are hopeful the initiative will transform the corridor into a cleaner, greener and more resilient urban spine. "For years, this stretch has been neglected. Turning it into a green corridor is a welcome move, especially as open spaces are scarce here. If the project also improves water flow and reduces flooding during monsoons, it will make a real difference. What matters now is timely execution and sustained upkeep," said M Saravanan, a resident of Thiruvanmiyur.