Three months have passed since the causeway over Adyar river at Ekkaduthangal was demolished for free flow of water. Though it was welcomed by all sections of people, the work after that is progressing slowly.
“Pedestrians find it difficult to walk since the pathways and the staircase directing towards the bridge is under renovation. The work is left halfway and wires are sticking out. It must be completed soon,” say people who use it regularly.
“It is understandable that the causeway is demolished to protect us from floods, but it is mandatory for them to provide alternatives,” they say.
After demolition, the causeway is filled with debris which is yet to be cleared. The residents claim that it is very risky since there are no indications or reflectors in particular. The officials should remove it and make it safe for people by putting up railings, they say.
Ever since the demolition work started, traffic movement has been affected on the stretch. “We have made certain alternatives and motorists will get used to it,” a traffic official said.
The causeway was acting as a hindrance, blocking free flow of water, especially during floods as it happened in 2015.
During every flood, the causeway would get damaged because it is right across the Adyar river at a lower level than the road on both sides. It practically blocks the flow of the river. Considering all aspects, the State Highways Department in coordination with the Corporation, Metrowater and TANGEDCO demolished the causeway.
Residents living adjacent to the causeway have welcomed the move since it has been a death trap for many. Motorists have fallen into the river due to lack of railings.
Photo: B Anand