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Chennai Beach Chaos: Stalls, Strays & Stench Suffocate Shore
20 Feb
Summary
- Hundreds of makeshift stalls have overtaken Elliot's Beach, reducing public space.
- Waste management is poor, with overflowing bins and littered sand.
- A surge in stray dogs creates safety concerns for beach visitors.

Elliot's Beach in Besant Nagar, Chennai, once lauded for its cleanliness, is now severely degraded. Hundreds of makeshift stalls have encroached upon the sandy stretch, drastically reducing space for families and recreational activities. Waste management remains a critical issue, with overflowing bins and widespread littering of plastic and food waste, posing risks to marine life.
Residents report a concerning rise in stray dog populations due to dumped food scraps, leading to aggressive behavior and safety worries for those using the beach. Despite some enforcement actions, such as an eviction drive resulting in Rs 30,000 in penalties, encroachments quickly resurface. The beach also experiences disruptions from weekly events with high-decibel speakers.
Civic officials acknowledge regulatory challenges and cite issues with establishments operating beyond authorized areas and resistance during animal control drives. Coordinated action with traffic police is sought against roadside eateries and encroachments. The future of Elliot's Beach hinges on decisive enforcement beyond token measures to restore its former glory.




