Rain batters roads in Tiruchi

The current spell of rain over the past few days has battered many key roads in the city, causing hardship to commuters and motorists.

Since the onset of the northeast monsoon on October 15, Tiruchi has been getting rainfall. The rainfall was not heavy in the city up to Thursday and it received only light showers. However, it received heavy rain in different parts on Friday.The continuous rainfall has damaged many arterial roads and interior roads.

Uneven road surfaces and potholes have become common sights on major stretches, with the top layer eroded in many places. The damaged patches have led to frequent skidding incidents, particularly affecting two-wheeler riders.

Anna Nagar roads, Karur bypass, old Madurai road, West Boulevard Road, Major Saravanan Road and important stretches around the Central Bus Stand, such as Rockins Road, McDonalds Road, VOC Road, and Williams Road, have suffered significant deterioration. Similarly, stretches around the Chathiram Bus Stand were also damaged. Similar issues have cropped up around the Gandhi Market, Palakarai, Varaganeri and others.

With heavy vehicle movement continuing through these roads, the loose surface material has begun to dislodge, worsening driving conditions. Recently patched up roads too have also suffered the damage. Motorists say the situation has grown increasingly unsafe, especially during nighttime travel.

“We encounter many deep potholes and eroded stretches on the city roads. They are testing the patience of motorists. We need to navigate carefully,” says R. Thiruvengadam, a social activist.

He said that the Tiruch Corporation should audit the condition of the roads, mainly bus plying roads, on a daily basis until the end of monsoon season. The authorities should carry out immediate repair works on badly damaged roads to make them motorable. Similarly, attention must be on ensuring smooth functioning of stormwater drains to prevent flooding on the roads.