CHENNAI: The Otteri bridge is a key junction that connects Strahans Road, Ayanavaram Road, Brick Kiln Road, and Cooks Road. Every day, thousands of commuters make use of these stretches to reach areas such as Egmore, Purasawalkam, Perambur, Villivakkam, Pulianthope, etc. Unfortunately, the authorities concerned have turned a blind eye to the damage visible on the bridge.
If one passes by, the sight that catches the eye is the broken wall all along the bridge. This has put pedestrians at significant risk, as a slip will push them into the canal that passes underneath with highly polluted water.
Daily office goers, women, and the general public rely on the bridge's pavement to access the Otteri bus stop. Light rain makes the pavements slippery, posing a danger to all commuters.
“With schools reopening on Monday, many students will be seen using the pavement to get to the Podi Kada and Otteri bus stops. The condition of the wall has been poor for over three years, and immediate action is needed before any students fall into the canal,” said A Ajay, a resident of Otteri.
A local shop owner remarked, “Earlier a barricade was placed, don't know why it was removed? Despite the house of State Minister PK Sekar Babu being in the vicinity, conditions have remained the same and overlooked.”
Additionally, residents have expressed concerns about the unpleasant smell emanating from the Otteri nullah, which is contaminated with sewage.
“While cleanliness workers do basic maintenance, such as dusting with bleaching powder, the odour is still unbearable for anyone passing over the bridge,” the resident added.
Repeated efforts by DT Next to reach the officials have proved futile.