The State Highways Department has commenced work to re-lay the Jawaharlal Nehru Salai, portions of which were damaged during Metro Rail work. Along with black topping nine metres of road on either side, it will also construct footpaths and service lanes wherever possible.
Of the total 7.5 km length from Kathipara to Koyambedu, the department has started work on the 2.5 km stretch from CMBT to Arumbakkam station, Arumbakkam station to Vadapalani, Vadapalani to Ashok Pillar. Work is likely to be completed in these three stretches by the end of August. Chennai Metro Rail has removed its barricades to facilitate the work.
The department is also looking to bring in some of the features that have been suggested by the consultant to upgrade this road to international standards.
Construction of medians, with saplings planted in them, lane-marking and some other design elements would be incorporated at this stage itself.
Initially, the black topping would be restored end-to-end, a platform laid and water table made. Tenders have been floated for more works.
Once the work is completed, more road space would be available for road users. K. Shanti, a resident of Virugambakkam, said due to Metro Rail work the already congested road had got even more so as nearly two lanes were unavailable for traffic. “Thankfully, we will now get some relief,” she said.
