Chennai Anna Salai Elevated Road Project Delayed Until 2027: Design Changes Hold Up Work

The Anna Salai elevated road project in Chennai, planned to ease traffic congestion between Teynampet and Saidapet, is facing a delay due to design-related issues identified during construction. The project, which was expected to be completed soon, may now require additional time and could be delayed until February 2027.

The elevated road is being constructed as a 14-metre-wide, four-lane corridor and is expected to improve traffic movement along one of Chennai`s busiest stretches.

Design Issues Delay Anna Salai Elevated Road Work

The project was planned to reduce traffic congestion on Anna Salai, with construction being undertaken at an estimated cost of ₹621 crore.

However, engineers reportedly identified differences between the approved technical design and the structures being constructed at the site. Some of the elevated road pillars were found to have slight variations in alignment, while the road alignment in the area requires a more direct configuration.

As a result, construction work has been temporarily affected while officials review the design and determine the required modifications.

80 Pillars Already Constructed

Around 80 pillars between Saidapet and Nandanam had already been planned or constructed when certain design-related concerns were identified.

The elevated corridor also runs close to the existing Nandanam–Teynampet Metro Rail alignment, making coordination between the road structure and surrounding infrastructure particularly important.

Officials are now examining the alignment and structural requirements to ensure that the elevated road can be completed safely and efficiently.

Elevated Road to Connect Key Chennai Locations

The proposed Chennai Anna Salai elevated road will cover several important locations and intersections, including areas around Teynampet, Nandanam and Saidapet.

The 14-metre-wide elevated corridor is expected to provide four lanes for traffic and help reduce congestion on the existing road below.

According to the current design, some sections of the elevated road have varying widths and curves. The road is expected to measure around 32 metres near Anna Arangam, 36 metres near TMS and increase to around 40 metres near Saidapet, according to the project details.

Project Completion May Extend to February 2027

The construction deadline for the Anna Salai elevated road project has reportedly been extended until February 2027. However, if major changes are required in the construction design, the completion timeline could be extended further.

The project has already faced delays, with work between Nandanam and Teynampet reportedly not progressing as planned since 2024.

The Highways Department is now seeking a revised approach to address the design and alignment issues bebefore construction can proceed fully.

Anna Salai Elevated Road to Ease Chennai Traffic

Once completed, the Anna Salai elevated road is expected to provide an important alternative route for motorists and help reduce congestion along the busy Teynampet–Nandanam–Saidapet corridor.

The project is part of Chennai`s wider efforts to improve road infrastructure and manage increasing traffic volumes. However, resolving the current design issues will be crucial for completing the elevated corridor within the revised timeline.