Residents of Pattabiram in Chennai are demanding the construction of a limited-use subway beneath a newly opened Rail Over Bridge (ROB) to facilitate the movement of slow-moving traffic. The absence of such a provision is causing inconvenience and potential safety concerns at Level Crossing No. 2, which serves a railway siding.
Subway Demand Amidst ROB Functionality
A six-lane Rail Over Bridge (ROB) at Pattabiram, a crucial infrastructure project for the area, had one carriageway opened to traffic in September 2024. However, the development has overlooked the needs of slower modes of transportation, including cycles and pedestrians, who also require to cross the railway lines at Level Crossing No. 2.
The Chenab Times has learned that the local community has voiced strong objections to the lack of provision for slow-moving traffic. While the ROB addresses the passage of vehicular traffic over the railway tracks, it has failed to account for the distinct needs of slower traffic that historically utilized the level crossing. This oversight has left residents frustrated, as their daily commute and access remain significantly impacted.
Concerns Over Safety and Accessibility
The primary concern raised by the residents is the safety and accessibility for non-motorized vehicles and pedestrians. Level Crossing No. 2 is reportedly a railway siding, implying that while it may not be a primary passenger line, trains could still traverse it, posing a significant risk to individuals attempting to cross on foot or by cycle when the crossing is operational. The absence of a dedicated passage forces these users into potentially dangerous situations.
Local representatives and community leaders have been actively engaging with the concerned authorities, highlighting the necessity of a subway. They argue that a limited-use subway, designed specifically for pedestrian and slow-moving traffic, would provide a safe and efficient alternative to the current arrangement. Such a facility would not only ensure the safety of residents but also enhance the overall accessibility of the area, connecting different parts of Pattabiram separated by the railway line.
Impact on Daily Life and Commute
The situation affects a considerable number of people who rely on non-motorized transport for their daily commute to schools, workplaces, and local markets. The inconvenience is compounded by the potential for delays and hazards associated with navigating the railway crossing. Residents fear that without intervention, the risk of accidents will increase, particularly during peak hours.
The Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) bus services also face challenges in seamlessly navigating this section, further impacting public transportation efficiency. The demand for the subway is seen not just as a convenience but as a fundamental requirement for the well-being and smooth functioning of the Pattabiram community. The residents are urging the relevant municipal and railway authorities to revisit the project’s design and incorporate the necessary infrastructure for a safe passage for all users.
Authorities Urged to Address the Issue
Community members have reiterated their plea to the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) and the Southern Railway to address this pressing issue. They have proposed that the subway be constructed with adequate lighting and ventilation to ensure its usability and safety at all times. The hope is that the authorities will recognize the gravity of the situation and expedite the process of building the much-needed subway, thereby resolving the accessibility and safety concerns of Pattabiram residents.
❤️ Support Independent Journalism
Your contribution keeps our reporting free, fearless, and accessible to everyone.
Or make a one-time donation
Secure via Razorpay • 12 monthly payments • Cancel anytime before next cycle
(We don't allow anyone to copy content. For Copyright or Use of Content related questions, visit here.)
The Chenab Times News Desk
