Slow Stormwater Drain Work in Ramapuram Triggers Traffic Chaos on Valluvar Salai
Residents and commuters in Ramapuram are facing major inconvenience due to the slow pace of stormwater drain (SWD) works along Valluvar Salai, a key arterial road in Chennai. The prolonged construction has led to frequent traffic congestion, especially during morning and evening peak hours.
Valluvar Salai is an important link connecting Kodambakkam, Vadapalani, Ashok Nagar, KK Nagar, and Ramapuram, and is used daily by thousands of commuters, buses, school vehicles, and emergency services. Because of the delayed SWD works, large stretches of the road remain partially dug up, reducing carriageway width and causing long traffic snarls.
Commuters and residents have also expressed serious safety concerns, including:
- Inadequate or missing barricades
- Absence of reflective warning signs and proper night lighting
- Open trenches and uneven road surfaces
Two-wheeler riders and pedestrians are at high risk of accidents, particularly after dark. Locals have urged the Greater Chennai Corporation to accelerate the project, implement strict safety measures, and restore the road at the earliest.
Citizens emphasise that while stormwater drain projects are vital for flood prevention, better planning, faster execution, and coordinated traffic management are essential to minimise disruption on busy city roads.
