Citizen Connect: Traffic signals at busy junction go blind, puts pedestrians and motorists at risk in Perambur

The flyover was opened in 2010 and various other developmental works were undertaken in the area over the years. But the traffic signals are yet to turn functional even after such a long time, complained residents here.

Not having functional signals has not only made the traffic chaotic and congested, but has also made it difficult – and even dangerous – for pedestrians to cross the intersection.

“As the signals are not functioning properly, it leads to chaos and traffic congestion at one of the most important spots near the Perambur railway station. This is an important junction for those travelling to Royapuram, Periamet and other areas,” pointed out Venugopal, a resident of Perambur.

The commuters and the residents’ welfare associations have repeatedly requested the traffic police personnel in the locality to take steps to install the traffic signals back at the junction. However, the authorities are yet to take action, they alleged.

“The signals have been dysfunctional since the construction of the bridge was started. The work was put on hold for a while due to political issues before being finally completed. After that, we contacted the local authorities on the issue but were informed that there are not adequate funds available for the signal,” said Raghukumar Choodamani, a resident of the locality.

With Perambur railway station and the bus stop close by, the junction that connects Paper Mills Road, Siruvallur Road and Perambur High Road sees a high volume of traffic movement, especially during office hours. “There are many restaurants and even a children’s park in the locality. Many commuters who choose public transport such as trains or buses are victims of minor accidents while crossing the roads. In the absence of proper traffic signals, the area is an accident prone zone during the peak hours,” said S Selvi, another local resident.

However, when contacted, the traffic personnel posted there claimed that there are enough personnel deployed there to monitor and direct vehicles at the junction manually. The officers, however, assured that the representations seeking installation of traffic signals would be considered positively.