Gummidipoondi residents want temple tank’s compound wall repaired

Residents of Gummidipoondi have urged the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department to repair the wall around the tank of the Varasidhi Vinayakar, also known as Gnanavel Murugan temple, located in the town’s bazaar area. The broken compound has caused several accidents, as there is a sharp slope leading directly to the tank immediately after the narrow road’s edge.

S. Suresh Babu, a resident of Gummidipoondi, said that even last week, an autorickshaw had fallen to its side and slid down the slope, injuring two persons. “Accidents keep happening due to the broken wall. When the compound collapsed during the pandemic, the narrow concrete road next to it also got damaged. Over time, the soil beneath the road slid into the tank and the road was damaged,” he explained.

S. Munusamy, another resident, said that until a few years ago, the tank used to be a source of drinking water for homes in the bazaar area. The temple also utilised the water for various purposes. Those who tonsure their heads continued to take a dip in the water. “However, now, since the water is covered with vegetation and rubbish, people think twice before using it. Along with the compound wall repair, the tank should be desilted and cleaned,” Mr. Munusamy said. 

Minister for HR&CE P.K. Sekarbabu said that he will inspect the spot and ensure that the required work is carried out.