Following the report by The Hindu, highlighting the safety risks faced by motorists on a stretch of Madathur road in Thoothukudi, which had remained in a state of disrepair for months after being dug up for Underground Drainage (UGD) system work, the State Highways department authorities have commenced the restoration work in the stretch.
The Madathur road which branches off from the Palayamkottai Road at Third Mile and is used by hundreds of motorists everyday, as it provides access to the SIPCOT area and Madurai highway. However, a stretch of around 400 meters that was dug up for UGD work had remained unrestored for months, posing safety risk for motorists.
Residents from the locality also highlighted the need for immediate restoration of the stretch. Pointing out that recent rain had accentuated the difference in level between dug up area and the existing battered road, they added that the resulting sharp edges had increased the risk of motorists skidding while negotiating the stretch.
With heavy rain forecast in the district, the immediate restoration of roads was among the major demands raised by residents.
When The Hindu contacted a SH official, he said that Wet Mix Macadam (WMM) would be laid within a week and the road would be relaid with tar after the monsoon had been assessed. Accordingly the SH authorities have commenced the WMM laying work on Thursday.
Published - October 22, 2026 08:55 pm IST