Citizen Connect: Broken storm water drain in Kelambakkam turns death trap for two-wheeler riders

Veeranam road is one of the busiest in the suburb and more than 20,000 vehicles cross the 1.5km stretch every day. It is the connecting link to OMR along the Vandalur-Kelambakkam route.

Sources said that the road was repaired two years ago using Rs 1.1 crore from Kancheepuram Collector’s fund. Passers-by complained that the concrete covering of the storm water drain is broken at many spots for the past six months.

They added that motorists who are new to the area are unaware of the road’s condition and this leads to accidents often.

To put an end to their troubles, the residents approached the State Highways Department who, in turn, diverted them to approach the local body. However, the staff at block development office said it should be done by the State Highways Department. Recently the residents approached the Kelambakkam police and requested them to place reflectors to alert the motorists who are using the road.

Furthermore, the villagers of Sathankuppam in the vicinity said that the lighting is very poor and it also is a reason for many accidents.

Villagers said that the possibility of danger is higher after 11 pm as the roads will be deserted and no one will be around to help motorists.

Ellappan, a resident, said, “We don’t know how many such incidents are happening at midnight as there is no light. I have seen many falling from their two-wheelers and getting injured. The vehicles also get damaged in the process.” When contacted, the Tiruporur BDO said that the damage should be repaired by the State Highways Department. Bu no officials from the Department responded to the calls from DT Next.