After facing delays due to heavy monsoon damage, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is gearing up to start the process of relaying more than 1,000 roads in the city from February. The estimated cost for this extensive road renovation project is around Rs 200 crore.
The focus of the upcoming works will be on repairing some of the severely affected road stretches, especially in areas like Adyar, Teynampet, Kodambakkam, West Mambalam, and Anna Nagar. Additionally, key underpasses such as Nungambakkam, Madley Road, and Stanley Government Hospital subways will also undergo relaying.
To ensure smooth execution of the project, officials have announced that necessary traffic diversions will be put in place. The Tamil Nadu government has sanctioned a significant amount of Rs 1,500 crore for road restoration works in 21 municipal corporations, with Chennai expected to receive a portion of around Rs 200 crore.
Deputy Mayor Mahesh Kumar revealed that all GCC zones have identified the damaged roads and submitted detailed proposals for approval. The corporation aims to present these proposals in the upcoming council meeting and expedite the relaying works by February, with a target to finish a major portion by mid-February. Additionally, plans are in place to appoint a project management consultant to oversee the quality of the road works.
Despite the ambitious timeline set for the project, contractors have expressed concerns over delays in fund disbursement, leading to mounting pending payments. The Greater Chennai Contractors Association president, R. Ramarao, highlighted the liquidity challenges faced by the corporation, with pending dues for civic works escalating.
As the city grapples with deteriorating road conditions, the success of the upcoming road relaying initiative will be crucial in addressing public discontent and ensuring smoother commutes in the future.
