Congested intersections along Dindigul Road put residents at risk

The city stretch of the Tiruchi-Dindgul Highway is emerging as yet another risky section for commuters with several congested intersections between the Periya Milaguparai and Dheeran Nagar.

Although the State Highways Department had strengthened and built a concrete median along the stretch a few years ago, the openings at medians at various places are now emerging as traffic hotspots, complain local residents.

Residents in areas living on either sides have to necessarily cross over the highway during their daily commute. “Of late, residents are facing a harrowing experience along the highway stretch from Periya Milaguparai to Dheeran Nagar. Hundreds of residents commuting by two wheelers, cars, buses, autorickshaws, and most importantly senior citizens, find it extremely difficult to cross the roads at various points,” said C. Balasubramanian, honorary advisor, District Exnora and a former member of the District Road Safety Council.

Mr. Balasubramanian said there were nearly a dozen intersections/median openings on the city stretch of highway of about 3 km. “We have openings at Selva Nagar, Railway Officers Club Entrance, National College, Vinayaga Nagar, Karumandapam, Thiru Nagar, RMS Colony, Jaya Nagar, Sakthi Nagar, and Dheeran Nagar. A few of these crossing may be crossed,” he said and called for better road furniture to ease the traffic flow.

“Some of intersections such as the ones at Karumandapam, Selva Nagar and Dheeran Nagar are highly congested and crossing them amidst the oncoming highway traffic is a nightmare,” said Kasinathan, a resident.

While city traffic police sources point out that barricades had been placed along the highway stretch to slow down vehicles at the intersections, residents say much more needs to be done.

Signage indicating road crossings, rumbling strips, and other appropriate road furniture could be installed at these intersections, residents say. At present, rumble strips are available at the Karumandapam intersection.

“Minor accidents are frequent; many escape from accidents by a whisker. Yet, the police have turned a blind eye towards the issue despite repeated requests,” Mr. Balasubramanian said calling for deployment of traffic police personnel at least during the peak hours at important intersections.