A crucial underpass in Tambaram, built at a significant cost to ease traffic, has turned into a civic nightmare for daily commuters and local residents. The Irumbuliyur underpass, located near the East Tambaram railway station, is plagued by stagnant sewage, a complete lack of lighting and CCTV cameras, and serious safety concerns.
A Costly Project Now a Health Hazard
Constructed in 2018 at a cost of ₹2 crore, the 120-metre underpass was part of a flyover-cum-grade separator project. It was designed to connect the Grand Southern Trunk (GST) Road and Mudichur Road in West Tambaram with Velachery Main Road in East Tambaram. Thousands of motorists use it daily to bypass the busy Tambaram flyover. However, the facility has deteriorated rapidly.
V Saritha, secretary of the Ganesh Nagar Residents' Welfare Association, highlighted the persistent sewage issue. "It doesn't matter if it's summer or monsoon; sewage keeps seeping in," she said. "Despite the foul stench, people use the underpass to avoid traffic near Tambaram Railway Station. During monsoon, the water stagnates up to hip level."
Safety Threats After Dark
The problems extend beyond just waterlogging. The underpass lacks proper pavements and lighting, making it perilous for pedestrians. After 6:30 PM, the situation worsens as the dark space becomes a gathering spot for anti-social elements. "The area becomes unsafe as tipplers take over," Saritha added. Residents' complaints to the local corporation yielded little result, as officials stated that the underpass falls under railway jurisdiction.
Broader Pattern of Neglect in Tambaram
The issue at Irumbuliyur is not an isolated one. C Murugaiyan, secretary of the Federation of Civic and Residents Welfare Association in Tambaram, pointed out a systemic failure. "Most of the underpasses in Tambaram don't have proper pavements," he stated. He also noted that seepage problems exist even in newly opened subways like the one at Radha Nagar, attributing most issues to a severe lack of maintenance.
Following the outcry, railway officials have responded, stating that an inspection will be conducted soon. They have also promised to install lights and CCTV cameras in the underpass. For now, commuters continue to navigate through the hazardous conditions, hoping for a swift and permanent resolution to the civic mess.
