CHENNAI: The long-pending four-lane road connecting Pammal, Anakaputhur and Kundrathur will be completed in the 2026-27 financial year, State Minister for Highways and Public Works department EV Velu told the Assembly on Friday, offering a firm timeline after years of delay.
Responding during Question Hour to concerns raised by Pallavaram MLA I Karunanithi, Velu said the project had gained momentum after the present government assumed office. He noted that the long-stalled Radha Nagar subway had already been completed and that the four-lane road proposal was now being executed under the Chief Minister’s Road Development Programme.
“Surveys were conducted six months ago, and works are under way in phases. Funding for the remaining stretches is being arranged within the current financial year. The entire project will be completed with full allocation by 2026-27,” the minister said. He added that the second phase of the project would be taken up this year, while the third phase would commence in the next financial year.
Karunanithi, in his question, said residents were expecting a clear funding commitment for the widening of the Pammal–Anakaputhur–Kundrathur road to ease chronic traffic congestion in the rapidly urbanising belt.
Replying to a separate query, Velu said the government was prioritising junction improvements to reduce road accidents. “Last year, junctions with roundabouts were upgraded at a cost of Rs 100 crore. This year too, accident-prone locations are being identified and improved in accordance with IRC norms,” he said.
The minister also informed the House that proposals would be prepared next year, in consultation with the Chief Minister, to construct inspection bungalows and guest houses in Assembly constituencies where such facilities are currently absent.
On a supplementary question regarding a proposed underpass project via Madurai airport, Velu said the Highways department had prepared a report but the Centre had declined approval. “Alternative traffic arrangements are now being worked out,” he informed.