Chennai Lake View Road Drain Work Delays Raise Safety
Persistent delays in stormwater drainage works along Lake View Road in West Mambalam have intensified safety concerns, disrupting daily commutes and raising questions about civic project management in the city. The stretch, a critical link between West Mambalam and T Nagar, caters to thousands of office-goers and commercial traffic daily.
Urban planners note that stormwater infrastructure is essential not only for flood mitigation but also for supporting sustainable urban growth. “Delayed execution of drainage projects increases accident risk, limits mobility, and can indirectly slow local commerce,” said a senior civic official familiar with city infrastructure projects. Residents and motorists report protruding steel reinforcements, poorly maintained barricades, and inadequate lighting, creating hazards, particularly for two-wheeler riders navigating the area at night. The Greater Chennai Corporation initiated the Lake View Road drainage work three months ago as part of its broader climate-resilient urban infrastructure programme. Yet, progress has been uneven. A transportation analyst explained that the combination of narrow carriageways, high commuter density, and interrupted traffic flow contributes to congestion and elevates accident potential. “Small stretches with construction bottlenecks can ripple across neighbouring arterial roads, impacting commuting efficiency and urban productivity,” the analyst added.
Infrastructure delays also carry economic implications. Lake View Road links residential zones with high-density commercial areas in T Nagar, and any prolonged construction can disrupt retail, services, and office operations. Experts suggest that slower execution of municipal projects often reflects resource constraints, coordination gaps, or insufficient deployment of project management technologies. In addition, poor safety measures at active construction sites may expose the city to liability and public trust challenges. Environmental and climate resilience perspectives further underscore the urgency of completing drainage upgrades. Chennai’s vulnerability to urban flooding has been highlighted in recent years, with surface water management increasingly linked to climate-adaptive planning. Urban development specialists highlight that efficient stormwater networks reduce flood risks while supporting long-term sustainable growth.
Local advocacy groups recommend reinstating continuous barricades, improving street illumination, and employing accelerated work schedules to ensure both safety and infrastructure resilience. Civic authorities are reportedly reviewing these interventions, with the dual aim of restoring commuter confidence and meeting project timelines. For residents, the Lake View Road stretch illustrates the broader tension between essential urban infrastructure development and everyday mobility. Ensuring timely, safe, and sustainable execution of civic projects remains central to Chennai’s ambitions for inclusive, climate-resilient, and economically vibrant urban spaces.
