Anti-socials use unoccupied TNHB flats as liquor bar, gambling dens

People demurred from relocating here initially as the flats were nearly two km away from the Vellore-Chennai national highway. Moreover, it had only once entrance, said sources.

However, due to the affordable rent amount and round-the-clock water supply soon attracted officials, who occupied the A, B, C and D category houses.

Soon, some of the residents built their own houses or were transferred and the flats had no takers subsequently. “As a result, anti-socials started using the deserted houses and converted them illegal bars and gambling dens,” said Lakshminarayanan (name changed), a relative of police department employee.

“We blocked the entrances using thorns to prevent the anti-social people from going to the roof. They might damage the pipes and disrupt water supply,” he added. Some of the housing blocks also lacked metal window frames which were allegedly stolen and sold off. “The frames are sold off to pay for the liquor,” said another person seeking anonymity.

Regarding the police patrol in the area, a bystander said, the cops come in the evening regularly as part of their mamool (routine) visit.

Regarding the presence of bulls tied outside the flats, Krishnan, a local, alleged that the empty houses were often used to accommodate bulls of the carts. They belong to the sand lifters. Bulls were found tied in two of the houses while the presence of hay in other houses testified this claim.

The entrance to one of the blocks is now used by Kumar, a laundry man. Asked about the dilapidated condition, he said, “Years back this was a thriving area. After people moved out, officials failed to maintain the houses.”

TNHB officials said, “The houses are dilapidated to be repaired and hence the only alternative is to demolish and reconstruct them.”

Pandian (name changed), a former government employee, said the board could have made money if they had sold the properties instead of renting them out. Why rent them out when TNHB cannot ensure proper maintenance?

Ultimately, it is the government which suffers the loss.”