Two years after the Trichy corporation allocated funds to redevelop vacant spaces below major road overbridges (RoBs), two projects have failed to deliver their objectives while three others are yet to take off. Instead of being transformed into play areas or green spaces, the impasse by the corporation has led to encroachments of space below the bridges.
Bhima Nagar Bridge Project Stalls
The civic body allocated ₹25 lakh to develop 40 shops below the Bhima Nagar arm of the Palakkarai bridge, intended to relocate street vendors from the Sedal Mariamman Koil area on Heber Road. Since the hawkers cause traffic congestion, the proposal was approved, and street vendors were supposed to receive 50 square feet of space each. However, two years on, the shops constructed below the Bhima Nagar bridge have become a free parking zone, with abandoned vehicles occupying the space as well.
Thennur and Aristo Bridges Underutilized
Similarly, the redeveloped vacant space below the Thennur RoB near Sastri Road remains underutilized. Waste and construction debris are dumped there, while residents complain of drug abuse in the area abutting railway tracks. Fencing and stone benches remain futile. Likewise, space below multiple arms of the Aristo bridge remains underutilized despite being located at the heart of the city. While lounges for construction workers have been developed, the facility below the bridge remains closed most of the time.
Public Concerns and Suggestions
“Cars visiting private hotels and wedding halls are exploiting the space below the Trichy junction RoB, which could be utilized for a green belt or some beautification drive with CSR support,” said C Balasubramanian, adviser of Trichy district Exnora. Residents suggested that a walking track with adequate lights could have been developed there. The Crawford bridge space at E Pudur is also misused by shops to store inventories, while a portion of the bridge near Anbu Nagar is used by schoolchildren to play volleyball and cricket. They sought a proper play space beneath the Crawford bridge.
Official Response
Corporation officials stated that the Bhima Nagar bridge space will be cleared in the next few days to accommodate stalls for street vendors. “Lights are to be provided; a public toilet is available near the Bhima Nagar bridge approach road. Other areas will be cleaned and utilized properly,” an official said.
