Pavement dwellers in Tamil Nadu, particularly in Chennai, represent a vulnerable population of approximately 40,000 families living on footpaths due to economic necessity, many working as daily wage laborers. They face constant threats of eviction, poor sanitation, and limited access to rehabilitation, with responsibility often disputed between local authorities, although some are being considered for resettlement through smart cards.
Key Aspects of Pavement Dwellers in Tamil Nadu:
Demographics & Occupation: Many are migrants, often from states like Rajasthan, engaging in manual labor such as construction, rickshaw pulling, and street vending. Others are local families who have lived on pavements for generations, staying close to city centers for work.
Living Conditions: Pavement dwellings are typically makeshift structures built with cloth, plastic, cardboard, and scrap metal. They face severe challenges, including lack of privacy, poor hygiene, and vulnerability to weather and road accidents.
Challenges and Evictions: Residents face constant fear of eviction, which disrupts their livelihood and forces them into unstable living situations. Evictions often lead to the loss of belongings and work days.
Rehabilitation Efforts: The Chennai Corporation and Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board (TNUHDB) are involved in rehabilitation, but there is often a lack of clarity regarding which agency handles, specifically, the needs of pavement dwellers.
Government Initiatives: The government has previously proposed issuing Resident Identity Cards (RIC) under the National Population Register to facilitate the rehabilitation of those on 'objectionable land,' including pavements.
Shelter Issues: While night shelters exist, they are often described as inadequate, crowded, and lacking proper facilities, sometimes leading residents to prefer remaining on the street.
Support Organizations: Groups like the Pavement Dwellers Rights Association (PDRA) (organized by Karunalaya) work towards the empowerment and rights of this community.
Key Locations:
Significant populations of pavement dwellers are found in Chennai areas such as Broadway, Parry's, Mint, Washermanpet, and Basin Bridge. 1950 pic of Rippon building and pavement dwellers in Madras
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