Chennai Starts Study to Widen Six Main Roads to Ease Traffic

A Step Towards Solving Traffic and City Travel Problems

To improve city roads and reduce growing traffic, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) and the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) have started a study to check if six major roads can be widened into four lanes. This study began in late January and covers roads like Gandhi Mandapam Road, Sardar Patel Road, New Avadi Road, Dr Radhakrishnan Road, Paper Mills Road, and Kamarajar Salai.

Officials say this project could help make the city’s transport system stronger and ready for the increasing number of people and vehicles.

Important Points About the Road Widening Plan

• Roads under study: Gandhi Mandapam Road, Sardar Patel Road, New Avadi Road, Dr Radhakrishnan Road, Paper Mills Road, and Kamarajar Salai.
• Goal: To reduce traffic jams and improve road connections in the city.
• Planning: The final plan will match Chennai’s city development and transport plans.
• Budget and Land: The study will help decide how much money is needed and which lands may have to be taken for the work.

Concerns Shared by Experts and Citizens

Even though the plan is big, city planners and local people have raised some concerns. Roads like Dr Radhakrishnan Road and Kamarajar Salai are already crowded with buildings and offices. These roads are only 20 to 25 metres wide, and experts say widening them could affect building safety spaces and footpaths for pedestrians.

A city GIS expert warned that making roads wider may just invite more vehicles, which can again cause traffic jams in the future. The expert also said that without strict building rules, more tall buildings will come up, putting more pressure on roads and public services.

Risks for Pedestrians and Non-Motor Vehicles

Many of the places planned for widening are currently used for parking. If these areas are removed, vehicles may park on the main roads, making traffic worse and putting walkers and cyclists in danger.

Experts have suggested a more balanced plan—one that improves roads along with better buses, walking paths, and green spaces. This way, the city can grow without losing its liveability.

What the Authorities Are Saying

GCC has said this is just the first step in the planning process and all groups, including citizens, will be asked to share their thoughts.

“Our aim is to make good and fair decisions. We will listen to what citizens, planners, and others have to say before making the final plan,” said a senior GCC officer.

Looking Ahead: Smarter Urban Growth

As the study report nears completion, this project could become an example for other Indian cities. It shows how infrastructure growth can be done with care for people and nature. If done well, Chennai’s road-widening plan could be a smart way to build a better city without harming the environment or people’s everyday life.