Tamil Nadu   

Pedestrians left with little space

. — Photo: K. Ganesan

FOR MORE ROAD SPACE: Wide platform such as this in the city can be reduced

Many pavements in the city have been occupied by encroachers, posing problems to pedestrians and motorists as well since the former are forced to use the road. With the vehicle population on the rise, the traffic police have suggested broadening of some of the roads to provide more carriage space. To broaden the roads, the width of platforms must be reduced.

By this exercise, the police will not only ensure better traffic flow but also evict encroachers and free the walkways to public use.

Admitting that the platforms laid for pedestrian movement on many stretches were encroached by vendors or occupied by shopkeepers to display their products, a police official said that a joint operation by different agencies — police, corporation and highways — would bring in the much needed relief.

Platforms along Kamarajar Road, North Veli Street, West Masi Street, Arapalayam Cross Road, Goripalayam, Panagal Road (in front of Government Rajaji Hospital) and Dean’s Quarters on New Natham Road are a few classic examples of encroachment.

Encroachment of platforms along the New Natham Road, Jawahar Road, opposite the Corporation (facing Dr. Ambedkar Road) and Goripalayam bus stop (opposite American College shopping complex) virtually force the pedestrians to use roads.

Worst are the platforms along North Veli Street, West Veli Street (railway station area), among others. Some use these platforms as urinals. The walkway in front of the Government Rajaji Hospital has been virtually taken over by vendors.

A senior police officer said that if the Corporation sought protection to evict the encroachers, the police would assist the civic body. The removal of encroachments would benefit road users and pedestrians and also pave way for a cleaner environment.

At a recent press conference, Commissioner of Police K. Nandabalan said that the police were studying various options to improve the road traffic system.

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