Arcot Road Chennai: SWD Construction and Rain Worsen Road Conditions

Commuters travelling along Arcot Road in Chennai continue to face difficulties due to ongoing stormwater drain (SWD) construction, Metro Rail works and recent rainfall. Damaged road surfaces, traffic congestion and sewage water stagnation have made daily travel challenging, particularly for two-wheeler riders and public transport passengers.

Arcot Road Construction Works Cause Traffic Congestion

Arcot Road, also known as State Highway 113, stretches approximately 12 km between Nungambakkam and Porur, passing through important residential and commercial areas such as Vadapalani and Virugambakkam.

Although the newly opened Chennai Metro line has provided some relief to commuters, road users continue to struggle with construction-related disruptions and poor road conditions.

In parts of Virugambakkam, stormwater drain construction has reduced the available road width, resulting in traffic congestion during peak hours. Uneven road surfaces have also made journeys uncomfortable and risky.

Sewage Water Stagnation at Vadapalani Bus Terminus

Sewage overflow associated with ongoing stormwater drain construction has reportedly mixed with stagnant rainwater at the Vadapalani bus terminus, creating a foul smell and unhygienic conditions.

Bus passengers have been forced to walk through the contaminated water to board buses, causing inconvenience to daily commuters.

Residents have also raised concerns about the pace of construction and the difficulties caused by prolonged roadwork.

Concerns Over Stormwater Drain Construction During Rain

The continuation of concrete-pouring work during light rain has raised concerns among residents about the quality and durability of the stormwater drains.

A senior State Highways Department official stated that the SWD construction is being carried out by the Greater Chennai Corporation and that pouring concrete during rain is not advisable.

The official also noted that Metro station construction, stormwater drain works and electricity cable-shifting activities are still in progress.

When Will Arcot Road Be Relaid?

According to the State Highways Department official, Chennai Metro Rail Limited has assured that Metro station construction will be completed before January 2027.

Once the works undertaken by the various departments are completed, Arcot Road is expected to be relaid in January 2027.

Until then, commuters may continue to face challenges due to road construction, traffic congestion and monsoon rainfall.