Chennai Residents Endure Six Years of Potholed, Waterlogged Roads Amid Civic Delays
Residents of Mel Ayanambakkam in Chennai's Thiruverkadu area are raising urgent concerns over the deteriorating condition of Etteeswaran Koil Street, where repeated underground sewage work and heavy-vehicle traffic have left roads potholed and waterlogged. Despite numerous appeals to civic authorities for permanent repairs, the situation has only worsened over the past six years, with temporary patchwork fixes proving ineffective.
Failed Repairs and Monsoon Woes Exacerbate Safety Risks
The failure to properly re-lay asphalt after frequent sewage maintenance has led to severe road damage, particularly during the monsoon season. Rainwater stagnates on cracked stretches, creating hazardous conditions for pedestrians and motorists alike. S Bhagyalakshmi, a local resident, emphasized the danger, stating, "After even moderate showers, it becomes unsafe to step out." This issue is compounded by rainwater from nearby tanks flowing into the area, further weakening the road infrastructure.
Heavy Traffic and Lack of Road Widening Fuel Congestion and Accidents
Former area councillor D Ramadas highlighted that temporary repairs have failed to last, largely due to frequent heavy-vehicle traffic on narrow stretches. The absence of road widening has resulted in severe traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, and poses daily risks to students attending schools along the road, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Ramadas noted, "Officials are planning to lay new roads along the Etteeswaran Koil Street stretch near Vivekananda School," but residents await concrete action.
Civic Authorities Respond with Promises of Swift Resolution
In response to the ongoing crisis, Thiruverkadu panchayat assistant engineer P Nalini assured that underground sewage maintenance work is expected to be completed within a week. She confirmed plans to lay a new road at the earliest, offering a glimmer of hope for long-suffering locals. However, with a history of delays and inadequate fixes, residents remain skeptical about whether these promises will translate into lasting improvements.
The persistent neglect of Etteeswaran Koil Street underscores broader civic challenges in Chennai, where infrastructure maintenance often lags behind urban demands. As monsoon rains loom, the community continues to advocate for durable solutions to ensure safety and mobility in their neighborhood.
