‘Serious’ patrolling has little effect on the danger stretch

To add to the residents’ woes, the lack of CCTV cameras and efficient police patrol has only led to an increase in accidents.

Vikram Krishnakumar, an entrepreneur, says there are many Tasmac outlets between Tiruvanmiyur and VGP Golden Beach Resorts. “Most of the accidents occur near these alcohol outlets. My domestic help’s husband was killed in a hit-and-run incident two months ago. Now, she must fend for herself and her two children. ECR has become notorious for its lack of law and order too. Over-speeding is rampant and there is not enough checking by the police. In addition to drunk driving, there are biker gangs who target cyclists and rob them. I had a personal experience when I was cycling on ECR and a few bikers tried to rob me,” said the resident of Kottivakkam. 

Aditya Elango, former badminton player and Program Director of Tejesh Sports Academy, said that the hundreds of farmhouses on the ECR, where much of the private parties happen, contribute to this problem. The resident of ECR added, “Many youngsters are heading to these farmhouses or Puducherry to party and tend to speed, especially after the Prarthana Theatre stretch.”

M Radhakrishnan, Founder of Thozhan, an NGO that creates traffic awareness, said the instances of drunk driving are increasing due to lack of checking. “There is no fear because people are let off with a minor penalty,” he added.

Aravindhan P, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic-South), said various measures have been taken to check drunken driving. “We have points where we conduct regular checks during the night and rotate these areas to get a comprehensive picture,” he said.