Chennai, Nov. 28:
The Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) authority has granted approval for the construction of a non-corrosive steel flyover across Buckingham Canal, aimed at creating a direct link between the East Coast Road (ECR) and Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR).
Six-Lane Road Project Proposed in 2021
In 2021, the Highways Department proposed a six-lane road connecting Thoraipakkam (Pallavaram Radial Road) and Neelankarai, covering approximately 1.45 km. This stretch would cross the Buckingham Canal, forming a crucial link between ECR and OMR.
The initial project cost estimate included:
- ₹35 crore for road expansion
- ₹38 crore for constructing the flyover
- ₹250 crore for land acquisition
The government had approved the funding and awarded the contract for the project. As part of Phase 1, the Highways Department has already completed 680 meters of six-lane road from Thoraipakkam Radial Road to the Buckingham Canal.
Court Cases Stalled Road Expansion
However, several residents filed cases in court opposing the road expansion from the Buckingham Canal to Neelankarai. As a result, the work on that stretch had been temporarily suspended.
CRZ Green Signal for the Flyover Construction
Meanwhile, the Highways Department had sought CRZ permission to build a bridge across the canal. The authority has now approved the proposal. The planned structure includes a 36-meter long flyover using non-corrosive, high-grade steel—a first of its kind in Tamil Nadu.
The total length of the flyover, including approach roads on both sides, will be around 300 meters, officials from the Chennai Metropolitan Development Plan (Highways Department) confirmed.
Two of the Three Required CRZ Clearances Obtained
Of the three stages of CRZ approval required for the project:
- Two stages have already been completed
- The final approval is expected in a meeting scheduled for the first week of December
Once the final clearance is received, construction of the flyover will begin immediately.
First Non-Corrosive Steel Flyover in Tamil Nadu
An official added:
“This will be the first flyover in Tamil Nadu to be constructed using non-corrosive steel. The Inland Waterways Authority of India has also granted its approval. Despite court challenges and opposition from some groups, the Highways Department is moving forward, and the remaining road works will commence soon.”
