In the monthly ordinary meeting of the Periyakulam Municipality in Theni district, discussions were held on essential basic amenities and various development works required in the town. During the meeting, 24th ward councillor O. Shanmuga Sundaram, brother of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam, addressed the council and raised several civic issues. He extended greetings to the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, while appreciating the administration for its governance. He welcomed the decision to close 717 government-run liquor shops in the state and supported the initiative strongly. He said that instead of reducing liquor outlets, a complete prohibition on alcohol should be implemented. He appreciated government measures aimed at preventing crimes against women and children and demanded strict action against offenders. He alleged that municipal staff in Periyakulam Municipality were not performing duties properly, affecting public perception of the council.
He urged the government to take action against negligent officials in the interest of public welfare. He stressed the need for uninterrupted supply of clean drinking water to residents of Periyakulam town. He raised concerns over alleged bribery in drainage and sewerage connection works and called for action against corruption. He also said commercial buildings within municipal limits are being wrongly assessed under house tax, causing revenue loss. He demanded action against building section officials responsible for this loss. He requested strict food hygiene enforcement in eateries and Amma canteens to ensure safe food. He also demanded action against restaurants cooking on roadside stoves. He suggested shifting cooking stoves from outside shops inside premises for public safety.
He requested permission to undertake patchwork road repairs at his own expense due to delayed municipal maintenance. He highlighted dangers from stray cattle such as cows, goats, donkeys, and dogs roaming roads and demanded action against owners. He pointed out rising stray dog menace and urged effective control measures to protect the public. He called for strict action against meat shops, tea stalls, and hotels serving food on newspapers. He emphasized reducing plastic use and promoting eco-friendly alternatives like banana and teak leaves for serving food.
Officials noted that the issues raised would be examined and appropriate action would be taken in accordance with municipal regulations. The meeting concluded with discussions on improving sanitation, infrastructure development, and ensuring better delivery of public services across Periyakulam town. Emphasis was also placed on accountability, transparency, civic responsibility, and timely execution of pending works for the benefit of residents across all municipal town wards.