The dark side of the highly famous Mamallapuram town that the visitors might not know!!
Posted on: 20/Oct/2023 9:30:22 AM
Mamallapuram is an important place near Chennai and many come here with their families and friends. It must be noted that an entry fee of Rs 75 has been levied on any non-local vehicle by the panchayat and that is without any parking lot.
Truth is that the only parking lot is that one that is present near the shore temple that can accommodate 200 cars. About 750 to 1000 private vehicles are parked on either side of narrow streets in Mamallapuram. The parking of cars here has been an issue for many. Persons trying to get out of the town from the parking lot are finding it very difficult.
Recently, a Chennai resident went to Mamallapuram to learn about the monuments there. She was unable to come out of the town for about 40 minutes due to parking of cars etc on the small roads. It is noteworthy that taking buses to Mamallapuram was so difficult due to absence of bus dept.
If the lack of bus depot has been creating issues on one side then on the other side the public toilets here pose an issue for the visitors. It was later brought to light by a tourism operator Mr. K. Balan that the tourists use toilets there that are available inside the restaurants or other private establishments etc.
Absence of piped water supply here is really concerning. As per a local resident here piped water supply from Palar River or from Nemmeli desalination plant would be superb for the floating population.
The lack of healthcare services has also been creating problems for many. The bitter fact is that the nearest functioning hospital is the Chengalpet GH that is 28kms away. The restaurants selling narcotic drugs have created huge fear in the residents here. As many as 40 ganja cases have been dealt in 2023.
