COIMBATORE: Residents of Peelamedu have raised serious concerns over the sluggish pace of the Thaneerpandal railway overbridge construction, which began a year ago after prolonged delays. Residents have pointed out that while civil work has progressed along the northern end, activity at the southern gate remains stalled.Blaming the delay on the part of the contractor for deploying inadequate manpower, agitated residents have urged authorities to immediately intervene, ramp up the workforce, and expedite completion to relieve daily traffic congestion at Level Crossing No. 6 in ward 24 in the East Zon. They urged the authorities to open the overbridge by December.Balasubramanian, a resident of the Thanneerpandal area, had recently written to the CM cell seeking immediate intervention. He said, “The railway gate near Thanneerpandal–Vilankurichi is frequently closed, causing severe inconvenience to motorists from Vilankurichi, Cheran Ma Nagar, Ganapathy Ma Nagar and Codissia. The Thanneerpandal Road serves as an important link between Avinashi Road and Sathy Road.”Although the project was planned in 2006, work was delayed due to prolonged litigation and legal restrictions. After several protests, the railways completed its portion of the elevated structure in 2018. Construction resumed recently after the project was re-tendered.Balasubramanian said, “Work on the seven-pillar ramp on the northern side of the railway gate had progressed slowly over the past year, while construction on the southern side had not advanced for nearly six months. Only about 40% of the project is reportedly complete, though the 560-metre bridge, supported by 15 pillars, was expected to be completed within 18 months. Moreover, the roads are completely damaged, making it hard for commuters and residents. The officials should expedite the work and complete it within the stipulated time.”
