The Chennai Corporation has decided to commence restoration work on Kodambakkam bridge, soon,
Following a recent trial run, the traffic police have made alternative arrangements for diverting traffic on the bridge.
“The bridge will be completely closed for traffic during Saturdays and Sundays. On other days, light vehicles such as cars will be permitted. Buses and lorries will not be permitted. These arrangements will be in place within a week’s time,” said a Corporation official.
According to the alternative traffic arrangements, vehicles proceeding to Valluvar Kottam from Vadapalani will take a right turn on to Viswanathapuram Main Road, and proceed through Station View Road, Rangarajapuram flyover and North Usman Road. The vehicles proceeding towards Vadapalani from Valluvar Kottam will take Thirumalai Pillai Road, Bazulla Road, Rangarajapuram flyover and Viswanathapuram Main Road.
The restoration of the 50-year-old bridge would include spraying of anti-corrosion material, polymer plastering and grouting. The worn-out bearings between the pillars and deck slabs would be replaced with new ones. “The work could be completed in two months if the police permit complete closure of the bridge. But this is not possible,” said the official.
A few years ago, an expert study conducted on the 623-metre-long and 12.8-metre-wide structure concluded that expansion joints had weakened due to water seepage and iron rods were exposed in many spots.
Because of traffic constraints and a need to relocate the shops on the bays, the Corporation had been unable to taken up work to repair and strengthen the bridge. However, the estimate for the restoration was prepared a few years ago and the civic body finally vacated the bays of several shops.
The bridge serves as a crucial link between the city and its western suburbs.
