Traffic Diversions Planned for Saidapet-Teynampet Elevated Corridor Construction
In a move to expedite the construction of the elevated corridor connecting Saidapet and Teynampet, the Highways Department has requested traffic diversions on Anna Salai. The corridor, a 3.2-km, four-lane stretch, aims to provide smoother traffic flow over some of Chennai`s busiest intersections. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin laid the foundation stone for this ₹621 crore project earlier this year in January.
Proposed Traffic Diversion Points:
- Near Thevar Statue: Traffic will be redirected via Chamiers Road.
- Usman Road Junction: Vehicles will be diverted through CIT Nagar 1st Main Road.
Construction Plan and Challenges:
To enable construction, an 8-meter-wide section of Anna Salai will be barricaded, taking 4 meters from each side of the median. However, the Traffic Police have raised concerns, noting that the roads proposed for the diversion are currently too narrow. “We have given them alternative suggestions to consider before approving the diversions,” said a senior traffic official.
Project Construction Updates:
Construction activities are underway, with micro-piling in progress near YMCA grounds due to the proximity of the Chennai Metro tunnel. In non-tunnel areas, open piling is used, and portal frames are under construction at metro station points.
Benefits on Completion:
Once operational, the elevated corridor will bypass seven key traffic junctions along Anna Salai, including:
- Eldams Road
- SIET College
- Cenotaph Road
- Nandanam
- CIT Nagar Third and First Main Roads
- Todd Hunter Nagar-Jones Road
The corridor is expected to provide significant time savings for motorists traveling along this critical route.
