While most of restaurants in the city have downed their shutters, the Amma Unavagams have come to the rescue of daily wagers and migrant labourers in Chennai. Ever since the lockdown was announced, the government-run canteens have been witnessing heavy footfall. Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has also announced free food for the sanitation workers during the lockdown period.
“Every canteen has the potential to cater to 2000 to 3000 people every day. All the canteens can together cater to about 10 lakh people. We have equipped them to cater to more,” says GCC Commissioner Prakash.
The corporation has also trained the canteen workers in cleaning and maintaining a hygienic environment.
The 407 canteens in the city have been adequately stocked with dry rations and vegetables required for the next 30 days anticipating the demand. The food here is offered at a subsidised cost: each idli costs Rs 1, two pieces of roti Rs 3, Pongal Rs 5 and rice varieties including sambar, lemon and curd for Rs 5.
The canteens are open daily, between 6 am and 9 pm.
Find the list of Amma Unavagams that are functioning across the city here: