352-m-long mat laid at Marina beach for the elderly, PwDs

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has laid a 352-m-long mat near the swimming pool at the Marina beach to help elderly visitors and persons with disabilities reach the shore with ease.

The mat is made of high-density polyethylene, suitable for the corrosive environment.

A similar facility has been proposed around a playground for children and persons with disabilities. Together, these two walkway projects are estimated to cost ₹80 lakh.

The GCC plans to expand the project to other beaches in the city, including those at Tiruvanmiyur, Palavakkam, and Uthandi.

A GCC official said the new mat served as a durable alternative to wooden walkways. “The wooden ramps were frequently damaged during the monsoon and required repeated repairs. These mats are sturdier and provide safer and more reliable access, even during harsh weather conditions.”

Feedback is being collected from users to fine-tune the design before expanding the project, he further said.

On the mat’s durability, the official said even heavy machinery used to clear waste could move over it without causing damage. Similar mats had been used in dump yards and areas with heavy sludge, as they could withstand substantial weight, he said.

The damaged wooden ramps are being repaired, and are expected to be ready for use soon, he added.