Chennai: The prolonged absence of a bridge between Pulicat and Karungali village in Tiruvallur district is compelling residents from 20 villages, including fishermen and farmers, to undertake a 20km detour to reach Chennai city.
This infrastructural shortfall not only inconveniences the local populace but also hampers the influx of tourists to the scenic brackish water lagoon of Pulicat. The bridge is essential at the junction where the Kosasthalayar River and the Buckingham Canal merge with the sea.
A resident and the state president of the Tamil Nadu Fishermen’s Association in Pulicat expressed frustration over the situation. He highlighted that fishermen and farmers, who depend on selling their produce in the city, and villagers commuting for work, face significant challenges. During the monsoon, the increased water flow in the river and canal poses severe risks, especially for children crossing the flooded stretch. The community has been advocating for the construction of this bridge for several years, he noted. The state highways department has previously submitted a project proposal, but progress has stalled. A senior engineer from the department confirmed the villagers’ demand for a bridge at the confluence point of the river and canal. He mentioned that the department has requested government funding to prepare a detailed project report (DPR), a prerequisite for conducting physical measurements and determining the alignment of the proposed bridge.
However, constructing the bridge is complex, requiring clearances from multiple government agencies. Approval is needed from the State Coastal Zone Management Authority due to the coastal location. The Pulicat Bird Sanctuary, overseen by state wildlife authorities, is nearby, necessitating their consent. Additionally, the Water Resources Department must approve the bridge construction since it spans the Kosasthalayar River and Buckingham Canal. Clearance from the Central Inland Water Transport Authority is also required.
The delays in the bridge project underscore a broader issue of inadequate infrastructure affecting rural and semi-urban communities. The prolonged detour not only impacts daily commutes but also hinders economic activities, particularly for those dependent on timely access to urban markets.
As the government navigates the bureaucratic and environmental hurdles, the residents of Pulicat and surrounding villages continue to await a resolution. The construction of this bridge would not only facilitate safer and more efficient travel but also boost the local economy by improving access for tourists and traders alike.
In the interim, it is crucial for authorities to expedite the approval processes and allocate the necessary funds to initiate the project. This will ensure that the residents of Tiruvallur district can overcome the challenges posed by the current lack of infrastructure and enjoy improved connectivity and safety in their daily lives.
