Umbrella Brigade: Residents prefer Special Officers to local councillors

With the term of the current councillors’ coming to an end on October 24, many residents feel that appointing Special Officers will bring about a positive change, especially in localities where the local representative has failed to address the civic issues. However, some have apprehensions over the extent of knowledge of the Special Officers over local issues, which could make it difficult to liaise with the residents.  

Ramanath G, Secretary of the Lake Area Residents Association (LARA), Nungambakkam felt  that in principle, appointing Special Officers is a positive move. “Special Officers are impartial because they are not affiliated to any political party. They can take decisions faster. In the 1980s-90s, it was these officers who were in charge. Back then, the functioning was smooth. They were aware of problems on the ground as they were posted for a lengthy period at a locality. However,  in this case, the appointment is temporary and for a short duration,” he said. 

While many are hoping for a responsive Special Officer, residents from localities where the councillors were prompt in dealing with local issues say they will feel the pinch. In Velachery, where the local councillor had worked closely with the residents, there is apprehension about liaising with a special appointee. “A Special Officer may not understand or be interested in solving these issues, since they come from different places. During the 2015 floods, the local councillors really worked on the ground and helped the residents. The local councillor has also worked towards bettering the storm water drains as well as ensure proper laying of roads, after the flood. I don’t know if the officer will cooperate with the residents,” said Kumararaja, Vice President, Federation of Velachery Residents Welfare Association. Neelakandan, Secretary of Vivekanandapuram Residents Welfare Association, added, “The councillors respond to residents’ problems because of the public votes. They have a responsibility towards the people. I don’t know how far the Special Officers will be able to interact with the residents and focus on the local problems.” 

Meanwhile, Greater Chennai Corporation officials were instructed to consult NGOs and residents welfare associations on preventive measures for the Northeast monsoon, by K Phanindra Reddy, who has been appointed by the government to coordinate supervision and monitoring efforts during the monsoon. He chaired a meeting in this connection at the Ripon buildings on Wednesday. The meetings, scheduled for 3 pm on Friday in each zone, would include officials from all concerned departments. IAS officials would be monitoring officers in each division aided by officials from the police, fire services, highways, PWD, TNEB and Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board.