Autorickshaw drivers operating from the Ernakulam north overbridge have urged the authorities concerned to open level-crossings to ease their hardship and improve connectivity of the area.
In an open letter addressed to the District Collector and City Police Commissioner, Harris Ummer, president of the Socialist Auto Drivers Centre, requested the opening of the level-crossing at the pocket road linking Lissie Hospital gate and Town Hall road and starting a level-cross at the end of Veekshanam Road and at Ayyappankavu. Autorickshaws and two-wheelers should be allowed to use these crossings along with four wheelers between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., he said.
Ever since the demolishing of the second side-bay of the North overbridge started, two-wheelers and autorickshaws have been barred from using the overbridge and this has put the public, especially those coming to the railway station and Lissie Hospital, into much difficulty.
Want to ply on bridge
Since no effective alternative routes were identified before the diversion, autorickshaws should be allowed to use the overbridge, the letter said. Mr. Ummer, in his letter, also suggested posting of a traffic police officer or a warden at the proposed level-crossings.
Widen road
He also wanted the Thammanam-Pullepady road to be widened and construction of the Pachalam overbridge at the earliest, and having one-way at SRM Road and Lissie Hospital Road completely and at Chittoor Road and Perandoor Road partially till the construction works are over.
Copies of the letter have also been sent to the Chief Minister, Principal Secretary of Transport and Corporation secretary.
