Anti-social activities at parks cause concern to residents

The Caldwell Colony park lacks compound wall and proper security and has become a haven for anti-social elements, particularly at night. | Photo Credit: N. RAJESH Public parks in some residential areas of Thoothukudi have become a haven for anti-social elements, highlighting the need for proper surveillance and security.Although Toothukudi Corporation has been taking steps to enhance the visitors’ experience in major parks, including Rajaji Park, MGR Park, Roche Park and so on, small parks located in residential areas are crying for attention. These parks are used only by neighbours for walking and playtime. However, residents allege that these parks are widely used by anti-social elements at night.Caldwell Colony park is a case in point. It lacks a compound wall making it easy for anti-social elements and delinquents to enter it.Rajan (name changed) said the park had become a haven for anti-socials. “Residents are scared to question them,” he added. These criminals disperse into different directions only when they hear the sound of a police patrol vehicle.He said CCTV cameras must be installed in the park to enhance the surveillance in the area. Another resident pointed out that the people involved in anti-social activities at this park often turn off the streetlights in the area to move around easily.Sundaram, a resident of Rajiv Nagar, pointed out lack of security at Umarupulavar Park in Kathirvel Nagar. He said the park gates remained open during both day and night, making access easier for persons involved in anti-social activities.Though residents have welcomed the civic body’s move to increase the green spaces and park spaces, they have called for better security and surveillance in all parks.Thoothukudi Corporation Commissioner S. Priyanka said work had already been awarded for the construction of a compound wall at Caldwell Colony Park. Steps would be taken to install CCTV cameras at all parks and enhance surveillance, she added. Published - October 29, 2026 09:27 pm IST