Formation of new district not likely to influence voting pattern

An erosion in the sense of euphoria among locals over formation of Mayiladuthurai district by the AIADMK government towards the end of its tenure seems palpable, throwing up indications that this factor may not influence the voting pattern in the Assembly election.

The new district encompassing Mayiladuthurai, Sirkazhi and Poompuhar Assembly segments came into being last December, but while there was no delay in creating a new revenue division with Sirkazhi as headquarters, the demand of the people for creation of new taluks was not addressed. For instance, there was a pressing need for creation of a taluk for the convenience of residents in Kollidam and surroundings, said Govindaraju, a resident of Sirkazhi. Though the district came into being, no commitment was given to the demand of locals for a government medical college and other major projects including a new bus stand befitting the district status and a ring road. The residents in Mayiladuthurai town, in fact, are seething with anger over leakages in underground drainage pipelines, C. Senthilvel, president of Mayiladuthurai Chamber of Commerce, said.