Chennai's Wall Tax Road to be renovated after 2-year delay

CHENNAI: After nearly two years of delays, the state will soon relay a 2.5 km stretch of Wall Tax Road, between Central station and Basin Bridge junction. The project, slated to cost 3 crore, follows the completion of a major stormwater drain construction project last year, which cost 32 crore.
The previous lack of stormwater drains led to frequent waterlogging.Last year, state highways department installed new drainage systems, relocating Metrowater pipes and electricity poles. This work caused surface damage, resulting in persistent congestion and difficulties for motorists.
Encroachments on Wall Tax Road had exacerbated these issues. Several illegal small shops had taken up road space, leading to traffic bottlenecks. Revenue authorities and local police removed these encroachments, and modifications were made to some corporation buildings to accommodate drain lead pipes, ensuring excess rainwater would be effectively disposed into the main canal. This effort aimed to prevent the monsoon-induced flooding that had plagued the area.
Despite these measures, only temporary resurfacing was done after stormwater drain construction, leaving the road in disrepair. Now, with the election model code of conduct lifted, state highways department is set to begin comprehensive renovation through a contractor. The road will be milled and relaid, which will significantly reduce traffic congestion, said a senior highway official.
However, residents have voiced concerns about ongoing issues related to private parcel companies operating on Wall Tax Road. “These companies frequently use the platforms for loading and unloading goods and park their trucks on the sides of the road, hindering the free flow of traffic. They block the road with their trucks, making it difficult for everyone,” said S Ramesh Kumar, a resident of Moolakothalam.