Residents across several parts of Chennai have expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of street name boards, with many signs reported to be damaged, faded, broken, or hidden behind posters and vegetation. The issue has made it increasingly difficult for commuters, delivery personnel, emergency services, and visitors to navigate several neighbourhoods, prompting renewed calls for civic authorities to improve public signage.
Residents say many road name boards have not been maintained for years, while others have become unreadable due to weather damage or vandalism. In some areas, signboards have been completely removed or obscured by unauthorized posters, advertisements, and overgrown tree branches. Local communities argue that the lack of clear street identification creates unnecessary confusion, especially for ambulance services, firefighters, tourists, and app-based delivery workers who rely on accurate location information to reach destinations quickly.
Civic activists have urged the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) to launch a citywide survey to identify damaged signboards and replace them with durable, standardized bilingual boards in both Tamil and English. They have also recommended regular maintenance and stricter action against illegal posters that cover public signage.
Officials acknowledged that maintaining street infrastructure is essential for effective urban management and public safety. Residents hope the civic body will prioritize repairs and upgrades to improve navigation, support emergency response services, and enhance the overall appearance of Chennai’s streets. The issue has once again highlighted the importance of well-maintained public infrastructure in a rapidly growing metropolitan city.
News as Reported.
