118-Acre Eco-Park Coming Up at Guindy Race Course Grounds, Chennai
Work is underway to develop a large eco-park spanning 118 acres at the Guindy Race Course Grounds near Guindy Railway Station, Chennai.
The land, leased in 1945 for horse racing, was taken over by the Tamil Nadu government in September 2024 after the Chennai Race Club failed to pay rent arrears of Rs. 730.86 crore. Following recommendations from the National Green Tribunal and environmental activists, the government decided to convert the site into an eco-friendly public space.
As part of flood mitigation efforts, six water tanks have been built and expanded over an area of 77,000 sq. meters, with a total capacity of over 13 million cubic liters of rainwater. These tanks will help recharge groundwater and prevent flooding in South Chennai’s residential areas.
The upcoming eco-park will feature 2.5 km of tree-lined walkways, viewing pavilions, and a plant nursery operated by the Horticulture Department, offering over 100 varieties of plants priced between Rs. 15 and Rs. 1,500.
Once completed, the Guindy Eco-Park will be Chennai’s largest green lung space, providing recreation and environmental benefits to the city’s residents.
