SWD Works on Basin Elephant Gate Road Cause Severe Traffic Congestion in Pulianthope

Ongoing storm water drain (SWD) works on Basin Elephant Gate Road in Pulianthope have resulted in severe traffic congestion, causing significant inconvenience to motorists, commuters, and office-goers.

Basin Elephant Gate Road, a major arterial route connecting Basin Bridge and Choolai, is used by thousands of vehicles every day. As part of the SWD project, a section of the road has been excavated, leaving only a narrow stretch available for vehicular movement. This has considerably reduced road capacity and led to long traffic delays.

To manage congestion, Elephant Gate Road has been converted into a one-way route for vehicles travelling from Basin Bridge towards Choolai Roundabout.

Similarly, vehicles travelling from Choolai Roundabout towards Perambur, Vyasarpadi, and Pulianthope have been diverted via DeMellows Road to reach Perambur. These vehicles are currently not permitted to use Elephant Gate Road.

However, some motorists continue to ignore the traffic restrictions and use the prohibited routes, further worsening congestion in the area.

Residents have also expressed concerns over safety and road conditions. Rahul, a long-time resident, said that water has stagnated at the construction site, while loose stones scattered across the road have made it difficult and unsafe for two-wheeler riders. He also pointed out that dust generated by the construction work is causing discomfort and eye irritation to motorists.

According to a senior official from the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC), the SWD project covers a 500-metre stretch from the Amudham Fair Price Shop junction on DeMellows Road to the Elephant Gate Road junction. The work has been in progress for more than 10 days and is expected to continue for over another month.

The official added that traffic police will continue to enforce diversion measures and encourage motorists to use the designated alternative routes to ease congestion while the construction work is underway.