CHENNAI: Residents of Ambattur and surrounding neighbourhoods have reiterated their demand for direct service road access to NH-45 (Chennai Bypass) at Patravakkam, citing a missing link near the railway overbridge that has disrupted local connectivity for several years.
As part of the prolonged demand, the United Welfare Associations of Ambattur recently held a signature campaign.
According to residents, the service road along NH-45 terminates at the Patravakkam Railway Over Bridge (ROB). While the main highway carriageway was taken over the railway line, the service road was not continued, leaving no local entry or exit at this location leading to traffic bottlenecks.
The lack of access affects residents of Ambattur, Kallikuppam, Banu Nagar, Pudur and Tirumullaivoyal, who are required to travel through Ambattur estate to reach the bypass. Vehicles using NH-45 are also unable to exit into these neighbourhoods, resulting in long detours through interior roads.
The Chennai Bypass runs from Maduravoyal in west Chennai to Puzhal in the north, carrying long-distance traffic around the city and connecting multiple National Highways.
Explaining the issue, Rajiv Prabhagaran, a member of the RWA, said, “The problem dates back to the construction of the ROB, when the service road was cut and never reconnected. Commuters are often forced to travel 6-8 km more, with congestion during peak hours adding to delays.”
Residents lamented the increase of traffic snarls on stretches such as Karukku Road, affecting daily travel and emergency movement. “The issue has been flagged repeatedly to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, NHAI, and even local elected representatives,” said a resident. “The latest letter, addressed to Nitin Gadkari, seeks approval for restoring the service road connectivity with a time-bound plan.”
As a measure, residents have proposed creating a short opening between the existing service road and NH-45 carriageway at Patravakkam, along with a height barrier to allow only local vehicles while preventing heavy traffic.