With a new bridge, flood prone areas of Manali and Madhavaram to get better connectivity during monsoon

Some of the flood prone parts of Manali and Madhavaram are expected to get better road connectivity as Chennai Corporation is set to expedite work on Vadaperumbakkam bridge for inauguration next month.

The project across Puzhal Surplus Canal connects flood prone areas located in Manali zone and Madhavaram zone, crucial for emergency response during floods in the city.

The project was delayed for several years after private landowners opposed land acquisition. The project has been expedited after the court dismissed the case a few months ago.

Chennai Corporation is expected to complete the work in 15 days. “Originally, it was a low-level causeway in Puzhal surplus canal. It used to get inundated during the northeast monsoon. Residents complained that they were not able to cross the canal during monsoon. By constructing a high-level bridge, we have replaced the low-level causeway,” said an official.

Land acquisition by private negotiation process started many years ago by Chennai Collector. After a delay, the project has been expedited to improve monsoon preparedness and is expected to be launched after the GCC completes the approach road, service road and painting work.

“If there is no rain, we will complete the work in 15 days. Painting work and laying of bituminous roads can’t be done during the rains. The structures in the private land have already been demolished by the owners,” said an official.

The State government issued administrative sanction for the 261.5-metre bridge in 2018 at an estimated cost of ₹19.33 crore. The revised administrative sanction for the project was issued in 2023 under Chennai Mega City Development Mission. The bridge with a width of 10 metres will have footpaths measuring 1.5 metre in width to facilitate movement of pedestrians.

Two more bridges in Kodungaiyur and Maduravoyal are also expected to be inaugurated by the end of December by the Chennai Corporation.