CHENNAI: Pavements on several major and interior roads across the city remain in poor condition, with many stretches standing as stark reminders of official neglect due to damage and encroachments.

The footpath along Basin Bridge Road, where the Zone 5 office of the Greater Chennai Corporation is located, presents a telling example. A visit to the area revealed that students from a nearby college were forced to walk on the carriageway as large portions of the pavement had been encroached upon. Autorickshaws

were parked on the footpath, a small temple had come up on it, and even a table was left occupying pedestrian space.

“There is no other choice than walking on the road. We have to be extremely cautious as heavy vehicles pass through this stretch,” said a college student.

At the other end of the road, ongoing drainage works have further worsened the situation, pushing pedestrians onto the roadway.

The stretch curves sharply, and with the works in progress, pedestrians cannot easily spot approaching vehicles.

The risk is particularly high as the road is a bus route with frequent movement of buses and other heavy vehicles.

The pavement itself is badly damaged and requires urgent attention, residents said. The concern is compounded by the presence of two schools on the same stretch, with parents and students using the footpath daily.

When contacted, Ward 53 councillor P Velanganni said heavy vehicles using the main road often hit the footpaths, leading to repeated damage.

“Repair works will be taken up, and the encroachments will also be looked into,” the councillor said.