New Traffic Regulations on Anna Salai Cause Motorist Discontent
The newly implemented traffic regulations on Anna Salai by the Greater Chennai Traffic Police (GCTP) have caused significant inconvenience to motorists. The changes, introduced to ease congestion, have reportedly worsened traffic flow, particularly during peak hours.
Previously, vehicles coming from GP Road heading towards Parry’s could directly access Anna Salai through the GP Road-Anna Salai junction. To address congestion at this signal, vehicles from GP Road are now required to take a left onto Anna Salai, proceed a short distance, and make a U-turn to continue on the other side. Similarly, vehicles descending from the Anna flyover are allowed to make a U-turn near the Mount Road Mosque to access GP Road.
Motorists have raised concerns that the new U-turns, especially near LIC, have created bottlenecks. Narrow roads and heavy vehicle movement make navigating U-turns particularly challenging for buses and larger vehicles. Many commuters have also expressed frustration over longer routes, increased fuel consumption, and time delays caused by the diversions.
Activists and motorists have suggested that authorities should consider feedback from stakeholders before implementing such changes. They argue that without addressing the underlying issues, such as vehicle overpopulation and road encroachments, the new measures may not yield the intended results.
However, the traffic police maintain that these changes were made after careful study and have improved the overall flow of traffic on Anna Salai. While they acknowledge minor delays during peak hours, officials insist that the new regulations have reduced congestion at key junctions like Smith Road and White Road.
These regulations are part of broader efforts to manage the growing vehicular population in Chennai. Authorities have assured that further adjustments will be made based on ongoing observations and commuter feedback.
