The project involves identifying suitable pathways in urban areas and enhancing them with the assistance of local urban bodies.
The Directorate of Public Health (DPH) and Preventive Medicine in Tamil Nadu is set to introduced 'Health Walk' tracks in all 38 districts of the state. These designated walking tracks, inspired by an 8-km walking track in Tokyo, are aimed at promoting physical activity and improving public health. Health Minister Ma. Subramanian has announced that the initiative is scheduled to launch on November 4.
The project involves identifying suitable pathways in urban areas and enhancing them with the assistance of local urban bodies. The tracks will be equipped with benches, informational material highlighting the benefits of walking, and route signage at every kilometer. To encourage participation, health teams will join walkers on the first Sunday of each month and organize health screening camps along the 'Health Walk' pathways.
The list of venues and corresponding Google Map links will be made available on the DPH's website at www.tndphpm.com. While the starting points for the walking tracks are being established, the identified routes will soon be posted on the website. Notable health walk venues include Dr. Muthulakshmi Park in Adyar, Chennai; East Club Road Race Course in Coimbatore; Silver Beach in Devanampattinam, Cuddalore; Collector Office entrance in Kancheepuram; Sunset Point in Kanniyakumari; Race Course Outer Road in Madurai; Additional Collectorate in Ooty, The Nilgiris; Paruthipattu Lake Green Park in Tiruvallur; Science Park in Anna Nagar, Tiruchi; and Gandhi Statue near Vellore Fort.
Dr. T.S. Selvavinayagam, Director of Public Health, emphasized the importance of individual responsibility for health, stating that this mass movement could help reduce the risk factors associated with non-communicable diseases.