1 week Ago
Chennai: The slow progress of stormwater drain (SWD) construction on Taluk Office Road, a critical link of Anna Salai, has severely impacted traffic flow and commuter safety. Initiated nearly a month ago by the state highways department, the project has remained stalled for more than two weeks, leaving large pits open and construction material such as cement rings scattered across the stretch. Despite the presence of heavy machinery, no active work is underway at the site, located along a busy stretch connecting Anna Salai to Raj Bhavan and Velachery and flanked by the Saidapet court and churches.
You Can Also Check: Chennai AQI | Weather in Chennai | Bank Holidays in Chennai | Public Holidays in Chennai The situation has left thousands of commuters, especially two-wheeler riders, at risk. Clouds of dust from exposed soil have drastically reduced visibility, while loose debris has increased the risk of accidents. Attempts to reach P Bhaskaran, superintending engineer (highways), for a response were unsuccessful.
The 300m stretch now takes nearly 15 minutes to cross during peak hours, with traffic bottlenecks reported throughout the day. Commuters point to the fact that the work has further narrowed an already congested road. "On one side of Saidapet, traffic is already choked because half of Anna Salai is barricaded for the construction of an elevated corridor to Teynampet," said T Ramakrishnan, a regular commuter from Nandanam.
"Parts that had just started settling after Metrorail work have again turned chaotic. Now with the drain project left incomplete, the loose mud spreads onto the road, making it dangerous for bikers. I've had a couple of close calls," he added.
Pedestrians have also been affected, with access to pavements blocked due to construction. "People are forced to walk on the road to reach the bus stop near Saidapet, which is extremely unsafe during peak traffic," said S Arun Kumar, another commuter..
