Chennai streets are flooded with happiness through this government initiative

Chennai: Chennai is a fast-paced and busy capital city of Tamilnadu. People in Chennai are always on the run from dawn to dusk. But a government initiative in Chennai is aiding people to come out of their mechanical cocoons. Yes, "Happy Streets" concept is a huge success in the city where people come out to the streets to walk, cycle, sing, dance and exercise. This initiative is really creating awareness about physical activities to attain a healthy lifestyle.

This drive is to make Chennai, a city of entertainment and happiness rather than just a money-making city. Initially "Happy Street" was introduced in Pondy Bazaar. The very first event itself was a huge success where people flocked together to share their happiness. Then, it was conducted at Anna Nagar, followed by T. Nagar. Recently, the event was conducted at Pondy Bazaar, the bustling commercial street of Chennai. Pondy Bazaar would have never faced that many people relaxingly enjoying their Sunday in a healthier way.

In this event, apart from dancing to movie songs, people indulge in folk dance with folk music and traditional dance forms. Many residents attended the event with their pets. This attracted pet lovers around. This event was organised by the Greater Chennai traffic police, ICC and Greater Chennai Police Department along with a few private organisations. Even though the event was centred around dance and music, the goal was entirely different.

All these happy changes were brought over into the city since M.K. Stalin became the CM. Mayor Priya is also working strenuously to beautify the city in various aspects. Last week, the 'Happy Streets' event was organised at Perambur 70 feet road, Shiva Elangovan road. The event started at 6 am and extended up to 9 am. The entire Perambur locality looked like one big playground where people gathered together to spend their Sunday morning along with their kids.

Youngsters were at the peak of excitement. Many residents were involved in dancing and few kids participated in fun activities like painting. A 45-year-old resident shared, "Chennai is reaching greater heights today. When I witness events like this, it reminds me of the streets of Singapore, Malaysia and London. Today's generation is very lucky. I too danced along with all those young people. I couldn't match their energy but I enjoyed it thoroughly".

DJ events on a Sunday morning are truly bliss for Chennai people. A young lady from North Chennai shared, "For the first time, Happy Street was organised in a North Chennai locality, Perambur. I never expected this much crowd for the Happy Streets event. The DJ event is the highlight of this morning. Our Tamilnadu Police Department organised this wonderful entertaining event along with a message on 'Road safety'. This event will be happening in our locality for the next four Sundays. And I am more excited for all the 'Happy Street' events in the future".

Another young lady said, "Usually DJ events will happen during the night. But in 'Happy Streets' we are enjoying DJ mornings. I highly doubt there won't be a concept of DJ mornings in this entire world. I get highly motivated on Sunday mornings because of this. Along with all these entertainments, the public should realise the major purpose of the event organised by the Tamilnadu Police Department".

Young friends who attended this event together mentioned, "This Happy Street event really stressed the importance of wearing helmets and road safety in all sorts of transportation. We also enjoyed this happy vibe on a highly positive note. Learning along with dancing was so fun".

The 'Happy Streets' event promotes non-motorist transport for a healthy life. So vehicles will not be allowed in the streets during the event. People should only walk or jog or cycle in the streets during the event. From Board games to cricket, anyone can come and play anything in the street. Music and Dance will be the highlights of the event. The major purpose is to let out the stress in the streets and enjoy yourselves.

A policeman said, "The Police department has been organising this happy street event for the past year. We stress the importance of road safety to the public in a fun way. No one should drink and drive, wearing a helmet is a must and wearing a seatbelt while driving should be followed. This modern awareness campaign is getting conducted all around the city. Last year, Chennai city alone witnessed more than a thousand deaths on the roads. This has to be reduced. The public who are participating in this event will take out a pledge on following traffic rules and road safety measures. We hope people would really stand by their pledge".