Chennai Iyyappanthangal Junction Flooded Potholes Disrupt Traffic Safety Concerns
The busy junction of Mount Poonamallee Road and Oil Mill Road in Iyyappanthangal continues to struggle under persistent potholes and waterlogging, disrupting daily commutes and raising safety concerns for motorists and pedestrians alike. The monsoon has worsened an already dilapidated stretch, leaving large puddles, slushy surfaces, and uneven pavements that challenge two-wheelers, cars, and pedestrians.
Residents and commuters report that the situation has worsened with ongoing Chennai Metro Rail construction. Despite five years of infrastructure activity in the area, basic road maintenance has lagged behind, leaving a critical arterial junction in poor condition. Mount Poonamallee Road is a vital link connecting Porur, Ramapuram, and Poonamallee with Chennai’s western suburbs, and the intersection also serves commercial, residential, and IT corridors.
“The metro works have been ongoing for years, yet daily commuters struggle to navigate the roads. Walking is increasingly unsafe, and traffic flow is frequently disrupted,” said a local activist involved in civic monitoring. Oil Mill Road, which feeds residential areas into this junction, compounds the problem by merging with the poorly maintained arterial, further heightening risks during peak hours.The recurring waterlogging at this junction not only causes inconvenience but also poses serious risks. Hidden potholes beneath stagnant water increase the likelihood of accidents, particularly for two-wheelers. While city authorities continue metro construction, residents demand a parallel commitment to road upkeep and drainage improvements.
Experts note that poor road maintenance in rapidly urbanising areas like Iyyappanthangal often leads to long-term infrastructure challenges. Without timely resurfacing, proper drainage, and regular monitoring, arterial roads degrade faster, creating hazards for both motorists and pedestrians. Local urban planners suggest that integration of metro construction planning with road quality management could mitigate these persistent problems.
Despite repeated attempts, officials from the State Highways Department were unavailable for comment. Civic activists emphasise that accountability and systematic monitoring of road conditions are crucial, especially in areas witnessing major infrastructure projects.As Chennai expands its metro network and modernises transport infrastructure, ensuring safe, sustainable, and accessible roads remains a critical priority. For residents and commuters, timely intervention to address potholes, slush, and waterlogging at Iyyappanthangal junction is essential to maintain connectivity and safety in one of the city’s most important transit hubs.
