Manhole mishap in Perambur Commuters face renewed troubles after repair blunder
In a frustrating turn of events for residents and daily commuters of Perambur, a poorly executed manhole repair has once again turned an already hazardous stretch of road into a safety concern. Located on the Murasoli Maran flyover, the issue has been a longstanding problem, with commuters previously raising multiple complaints about the damaged manhole. Despite authorities finally taking action, what awaited them was an even worse situation. The repair work was completed, but the manhole was left protruding above the road level, creating an uneven surface that now poses greater risks for both motorists and pedestrians.
This apparent oversight in the repair process has left many questioning the competency of the contractors involved and the efficacy of the local authorities in addressing repeated complaints. The uneven manhole now obstructs roughly four feet of the road width, further exacerbating an already chaotic traffic situation in the area. Local residents and commuters, including Raghukumar Choodamani from the Perambur Neighbourhood Development Forum, have voiced their frustration, highlighting the dangerous consequences of this substandard fix. Choodamani pointed out that numerous accidents have already occurred due to the protruding manhole, especially at night when drivers are less likely to spot the obstruction. He also criticised the failure of the authorities to take appropriate action despite the issue being flagged as early as 2022.
What’s more concerning is the apparent disregard for the safety of commuters. As Raghukumar notes, this recurring issue has created an accident-prone spot that has become particularly dangerous for those unfamiliar with the road’s uneven surface. Many have skidded as a result of the protruding manhole, causing injuries and property damage. The fact that the local contractors continue to perform such substandard repairs each time, without addressing the root cause of the problem, paints a troubling picture of the state of public infrastructure in Perambur. Furthermore, the persistent state of disrepair along Perambur High Road’s stormwater drain adds to the growing dissatisfaction with the local authorities’ inability to address civic concerns effectively.
While the issue remains unresolved, it also highlights broader civic issues in urban areas like Perambur. The failure to maintain and repair basic infrastructure not only impedes the daily life of residents but also raises concerns about the prioritisation of public safety. In a city like Chennai, where urban sprawl and population growth are continuous, maintaining a safe and well-maintained road network is crucial for sustaining the quality of life. The manhole issue, although seemingly minor, has a significant impact on public perception of governance and the adequacy of infrastructure.
From a sustainability perspective, the ongoing failure to deliver quality road maintenance underlines a crucial concern: the strain on urban resources and the need for smarter, more effective civic planning. Sustainable urban growth is not just about constructing new buildings and expanding infrastructure, but also about ensuring that existing infrastructure is maintained in a way that promotes safety and accessibility. While the current repair may have been intended as a temporary fix, it underscores the necessity of long-term, sustainable solutions that can better withstand the challenges posed by urbanisation, climate change, and the growing demands of an expanding city. Ensuring that the local government invests in durable, safety-conscious repairs and road enhancements will be key to creating a more resilient and liveable city for all.