CHENNAI: North Mada Street in Mylapore has been virtually taken over by parked vehicles, worsening congestion in the area amid ongoing Metro Rail construction works near Tirumayilai. The situation has significantly reduced road space, causing inconvenience to pedestrians and motorists alike.
A visit to the stretch revealed that cars, autorickshaws and two-wheelers were parked along the road, occupying much of the carriageway. The street is located adjacent to the Kapaleeswarar temple, which has heavy footfall. With little space left for movement, pedestrians are forced to navigate through moving traffic.
On Saturday evening, the area witnessed severe congestion, making it difficult for pedestrians to walk without the risk of being hit by vehicles.
Similar issues were observed on RK Mutt Road nearby, where vehicles have been parked along the roadside. A portion of the road has been closed for Metro Rail construction, leaving only a narrow stretch for two-wheelers and pedestrians.
"The Metro construction work began about two years ago. Earlier, this road was used by buses, but one end has now been closed to bus traffic, and only two-wheelers use it. Since the work started, vehicles being parked on the road have become a common sight," said a vendor in the area.
A Greater Chennai Corporation official said that while the issue of roadside parking was known, no formal complaints had been received so far. "The matter will be brought to the notice of the traffic police, who handle parking-related issues," the official said.