Chennai: Commuters using South Usman Road via CIT Nagar to reach Nandanam endure a daily 10-minute ordeal during peak hours at one specific intersection under the T Nagar steel flyover. Buses, autorickshaws, and motorists converge from all sides, making the South West Boag road intersection chaotic and dangerous for both motorists and pedestrians.
Peak Hour Hazard
The problem intensifies after 7pm when many people use this stretch to access Anna Salai. V Sharan, who works at a tailor shop near the junction, described a recent incident where a man fell off his scooter after being hit by a car, leading to a scuffle that lasted over 20 minutes. Shopkeepers and residents say the situation could be rectified by installing a traffic signal at the intersection, which sees vehicles from four directions: South Usman Road, SW Boag Road, New Boag Road, and CIT 1st Main Road.
Defunct Signals Worsen Congestion
Currently, three signals exist in the area—two on the stretch towards Nandanam and one on the opposite side. However, none were functioning during multiple visits by TOI over the past week. Nisar, who runs an eatery on the stretch, said, “The signals have been defunct for years, barring select times on random days. This causes vehicles, especially two-wheelers, to move about haphazardly. People are unable to cross the road. Buses stop here for several minutes.” Residents also flagged the lack of a bus stand near the Housing Board office, further down the stretch, which adds to traffic. “The road is already narrow due to the flyover. To make matters worse, buses stop right on the middle of the road, adding to severe congestion,” Nisar added.
Authorities Respond
Traffic enforcement officials were unavailable for comment, but traffic inspector (investigation) B Rithish said steps would be taken to prevent accidents at the spot and that the grievances would be conveyed to the enforcement wing.
