Work on the flyover in Porur — at the junction of Mount Poonamallee Road and Arcot Salai — is likely to resume in six months’ time.
The work had been put on hold by the highways department as there was a delay on the part of Chennai Metrowater in shifting water mains from the Chembarambakkam lake that run beneath the road’s surface.
Bid scrutiny on
The highways department, which has now decided to take up the work on its own, is scrutinising bids submitted by contractors, an official said.
“Tenders for two other sub-works including laying of service roads and construction of stormwater drains are also under scrutiny. The three tasks will be carried out at a cost of around Rs. 10 crore,” the official said.
Obstacles many
Two water mains running to a length of 575 metres and 675 metres are to be shifted to facilitate the construction of the flyover at the busy junction in Porur. Work on the four-lane flyover — that is 475 metres long and 17. 2 metres wide — began in March 2010 but had to be halted after just 10 per cent of the construction was completed.
Costs escalate
Though land acquisition for the project was completed last July, the construction was not resumed. Spiralling costs of building materials and more work meant a fresh estimate for the project, which could now cost around Rs. 55 crore, the official said.
For motorists heading towards Red Hills, speedy completion of the project would mean a reduction in waiting time at the junction.
G. Jegan, a cab driver from T. Nagar, said he avoided going via Mount Poonamallee Road during rush hour. “Even in the afternoons, there is heavy traffic and vehicles are stuck for nearly 20 minutes,” he said.
Perhaps the highways department could use pre-cast structures so the work can be completed on time, the driver said.
