Crossing the Jamunai Odai stretch passing through Corporation ward 45 where the ‘low level bridge’ was washed away during the last monsoon, is continuing to be an extremely dangerous crossover for the motor vehicle users.
Without any side railings and having only a sandy narrow riding surface, which was set up as a cosmetic arrangement by the authorities to ensure traffic movement, the drivers sounded scary, especially when they had to cross the segment during the night hours and also whenever skies open up.
“Vehicles can fall into the stream if the drivers are not extremely careful. Corporation administration should take steps at the earliest to construct a new bridge in the area since it remains one of the busiest links,” pointed out S. Sundarapandian, district convener of Aam Aadmi Party. Mr. Sundarapandian, who had taken up the demand for a new bridge many a time with the Corporation officials, said that an inquiry should be conducted on the washing away of the bridge as poor construction led to the collapse.
When contacted, councillor of ward 45 M. Kannappan told The Hindu that the administration plans to construct a ‘high-level bridge’ at an estimated project outlay of Rs. one crore.
“The proposal has been sent for approval from the government, which is expected to come soon,” he said.
The public toilet complex situated on the banks of the odai near the bridge, which too was washed away, would be reconstructed soon.
“We are planning a 16-seat toilet complex in the area,” Mr. Kannappan said.
