For over a decade, the Amma canteen near Arakkonam’s old bus terminus stood quiet, its walls fading and facilities aging. But on Saturday, that silence broke. Minister for Co-operation V. Gandhiraj cut the ribbon, officially reopening the restored facility—a moment that felt like rekindling an old promise.

Key facts

  • Restoration cost: ₹11 lakh
  • Inaugurated by Minister V. Gandhiraj
  • Originally opened in 2015 by former CM Jayalalithaa
  • Walajah town canteen (₹9 lakh refurbishment) opening soon

A Long-Awaited Revival

This isn’t just another government project. When former Chief Minister Jayalalithaa virtually launched Amma Canteens across Ranipet, Arcot, Arakkonam, and Walajah in 2015, they symbolized affordable meals and community care. But time took its toll. Renovations had been overdue—until now.

G. Anandan, Commissioner of Arakkonam municipality, put it plainly: “The municipality has completed restoration work of the canteens for the first time with improved civic amenities for visitors.” You could almost hear the relief in his words.

What’s New Inside?

The ₹11 lakh facelift wasn’t just cosmetic. Workers laid new water pipelines, updated electrical systems to prevent power hiccups, and scrubbed clean a 50,000-litre overhead tank. Motor pump sets got refurbished, ensuring water flows without interruption. Even the utensils are new.

And Arakkonam isn’t alone. Just down the road in Walajah, another canteen—refurbished at a cost of ₹9 lakh—will welcome the public within days.

Why It Matters

Amma canteens have always been about more than food. They’re places where a warm meal costs little, where community gathers. Bringing this one back to life isn’t just fixing a building—it’s honoring a legacy.

As Minister Gandhiraj and District Collector N. Priya Ravichandran toured the renewed space, you could sense the quiet satisfaction. After years of waiting, Arakkonam’s canteen is ready to serve again.