Three flyovers in city opened overnight for public without fanfare

According to officials, the flyovers at Anna Arch, Vadapalani intersection and Retteri flyovers were thrown open for motorists, as the construction works were fully completed. However, sources said that though constructions of these flyovers were completed much earlier, the inauguration was delayed for unknown reasons. With the construction launched three to four years ago, the flyovers took shape after facing several hurdles including getting clearance certificates, sources added.

“As far as Anna Arch flyover is concerned, work was delayed in the beginning for political reasons. The actual deadline for the project was 2013. However, we completed it recently,” said an engineer, requesting anonymity. The engineer added that workers carried out construction only during night hours, as the place witnesses traffic jam throughout the day. The Vadapalani flyover, for which the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) took up construction works along with State Highways department, was much-needed to ease the perennial traffic jam at the intersection. “The opening of flyover will surely ease traffic congestion,” said another SH official. 

Though works were almost complete in November itself, they needed to carry out some small works, the engineer said and added that though proposal for this flyover was made in 2010, works were delayed due to ongoing works of Chennai Metro. Similarly, opening of Retteri flyover will be a boon to the motorists from Madhavaram and Red Hills. “Henceforth, it is easy for residents from these areas to reach the other end of the city,” said an official. 

However, motorists and activists were surprised at the inauguration of the flyovers without fanfare. “I couldn’t understand why there was no prior information. I hope the traffic congestion near Anna Arch and Vadapalani would steadily decline,” said A Moorthy, a private firm employee, who pass through these two flyovers frequently.