There is a traffic signal and a pedestrian signal near Chennai International Airport, diagonally opposite the Tirusulam Railway Station, on G.S.T. Road. The pedestrian signal remains largely unused. There are many who don’t pay heed to the signal, cross the road dangerously to reach the Airport or the station.
Pedestrians are not prepared to take the blame entirely. They cite traffic indiscipline and poor enforcement of traffic rules for their unacceptable behaviour.
“During the rush hour, things are worse, a line of taxis and omnibuses dot the busy stretch (adjacent to the pavements) making life hell for the pedestrians. Motorcyclists do not bother to stop even when the signal turns red,” V. Purushothaman, a pedestrian, said.
According to pedestrians, motorists overspeed, overtake and generally indulge in rash driving. “Before the traffic signals turn from red to green, motorists come from nowhere scaring pedestrians,” said Purushothaman.
It is a common sight to see scores of pedestrians crossing near the Tirusulam Railway Station Road. At night, lack of proper illumination adds a deadly dimension to the problem. As there are only a few pedestrians and a few vehicles at the signal, motorists indulge in reckless driving.
Similarly, vehicles coming from the western side of Grand Southern Trunk (G.S.T.) Road, take a sudden right turn to go to Pallavaram, unmindful of the approaching traffic from the eastern side.
A pedestrian subway has been constructed connecting Tirusulam Railway Station from the Airport premises, but it is of no use for the commuters, who have to walk nearly half-a-kilometre to use the subway.
Pedestrians/commuters wanted the authorities concerned to shift the bus stop near Tirusulam Railway Station as it would prove to be an easier connectivity from the subway. Purushothaman said the issue had been represented to Member of Parliament from Sriperumbudur K. N. Ramachandran and that he had promised to do the needful after studying the issue in depth, he pointed out.
