The Madras High Court has granted approval for a Formula 4 night street car race to be held in Chennai, scheduled for August 31 and September 1. This decision follows an assurance from the Tamil Nadu government that the event will only proceed after securing a clearance certificate from the FIA (Federation Internationale de l’Automobile) to ensure the safety of both participants and the public.
The court’s decision came in response to a petition filed by a BJP functionary, who sought to prevent the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu and Racing Promotions Private Limited from conducting the race due to concerns about safety. The petitioner argued that the race, featuring heavy racing cars, would take place on public roads and claimed that the selected circuit around Island Grounds was unsuitable for such an event.
During the court hearing, the Tamil Nadu government confirmed that the FIA certification, which is crucial for the race to proceed, would only be issued shortly before the event. This certification would be granted following a thorough inspection of the circuit and the implementation of necessary safety measures. The assurance from the government addressed the petitioner’s safety concerns, highlighting that the race could not be conducted until FIA officials had inspected the track and issued the required certificate.
In addition to the FIA clearance, the court mandated that the Tamil Nadu government and the police department submit affidavits detailing the management of traffic and measures to ensure accessibility to key locations, including the Omandurar multi-speciality hospital and the Chennai railway station. These measures are intended to mitigate any potential disruptions to essential services and public movement during the race.
The Formula 4 night race in Chennai represents a significant event in the city’s sporting calendar, with the street circuit around Island Grounds providing a unique setting for the competition. The court’s ruling reflects a balance between promoting high-profile sporting events and addressing public safety concerns, ensuring that the event will proceed under stringent safety protocols. The outcome is a victory for both motorsport enthusiasts and the authorities, who are tasked with ensuring a smooth and secure event.
