Chennai, Sept 24:
Temporary traffic changes introduced on Rajiv Gandhi Salai (OMR) by the Greater Chennai Traffic Police on Wednesday led to increased congestion at several locations along the busy IT corridor.
The traffic arrangements were introduced to regulate vehicular movement and ease congestion. However, several commuters reported longer delays after three U-turns were closed on the OMR stretch.
The U-turns near Geetham Restaurant, BSR Mall and the World Trade Centre were prohibited as part of the new traffic management measures. With motorists unable to use the familiar turning points, many had to travel farther or take alternative routes before making a U-turn, resulting in additional congestion.
Commuters were also caught off guard by the changes as the traffic police announced the new arrangements on social media only on Tuesday night, a day before their implementation. Regular motorists on OMR had limited time to plan alternative routes.
Rajiv Gandhi Salai is a major IT and commercial corridor connecting several residential neighbourhoods, business parks and technology companies. Thousands of commuters use the road every day, particularly during peak hours.
The latest changes have highlighted the challenges involved in regulating traffic on the heavily used corridor. Motorists have been advised to follow traffic police instructions and use alternative routes wherever necessary.