The deteriorating condition of the main road near Senthil Nagar signal in Kolathur has become a pressing concern for Chennai’s residents. Stretching through one of the area’s busiest corridors, the road connects key neighbourhoods and is essential for daily commuters. With frequent rain further worsening its already poor condition, residents and regular travellers describe navigating the uneven and pothole-ridden surface as perilous, heightening the risk of skidding accidents and minor injuries. Venkadesan, a local commuter, shared, “This road has turned into a daily hazard for us, as potholes and loose gravel make it a constant tripping risk.”
This damaged road serves as a vital link between Kolathur and areas such as Padi, Villivakkam, and Korattur, while also catering to an influx of visitors to nearby establishments like Aishwarya Hospital and Maaya Women’s Hospital & Fertility Centre. Throughout the day, commuters and pedestrians frequent the area’s busy shops, supermarkets, and eateries, increasing traffic and underscoring the need for urgent repair. The presence of these facilities has made the road’s current condition a broader civic issue, impacting a large swathe of Chennai’s population who rely on this route.
Adding to the road’s challenges, frequent excavations for utility projects by the Tamil Nadu Electricity Board (TNEB) and Metro Water Board have exacerbated the wear and tear. Multiple dig-ups have left the surface cracked and uneven, with repairs either incomplete or delayed, causing frustration among locals. Residents have voiced complaints over the last eight months, appealing for the authorities to promptly address the road’s poor state, yet the issue remains unresolved. Their calls highlight not only the inconvenience but also the urgent safety risks posed by the road’s current state.
From a sustainability perspective, repeated, poorly-coordinated roadworks contribute to wasted resources and environmental strain, reinforcing the need for a long-term maintenance plan. Proper road repair not only benefits public safety but also aligns with sustainable urban development by reducing the need for frequent, resource-heavy interventions. The zonal officials have indicated that repairs will commence soon, with promises to fill potholes, yet Kolathur residents await action. It remains to be seen whether these measures will finally bring lasting relief for commuters in this critical Chennai locality.
