Reconstruction of Three Bridges on Buckingham Canal by Greater Chennai Corporation

The greater Chennai corporation plans to execute a work valued at ₹16.87 crore. Under this work, it intends to reconstruct three bridges over Buckingham Canal that would join ECR with OMR. The works would be executed for 15 months and hence ensure smooth connectivity by relieving congestion at those locations.

These are situated between Venkatesapuram and Elango Nagar, Kottivakkam (Ward 181, Perungudi Zone), Kamaraj Salai and Veeramani Salai, Palavakkam (Wards 182 and 183, Perungudi Zone), and Pandian Street and Anna Nagar in Thoraipakkam (Divisions 192 and 193, Sholinganallur Zone). These roads are of immense importance to the daily commuter, especially by two-wheeler, and car as they provide an alternative route by avoiding congested roads.

Residents such as Veeramani of Velachery use these bridges for daily travel. For example, the Elango Nagar bridge cuts short the time taken to reach Kottivakkam and saves the bother of crossing multiple traffic signals at Thiruvanmiyur. The bridges have been closed to heavy vehicles since late 2024 for safety reasons.

The new bridges will be 300 meters in length, the carriageways will have a width of 7.5 meters, and footpaths 1.5 meters wide.

They will have a 20 cm thick concrete slab deck, supported by steel and concrete beams. Key safety features include crash barriers, drainage spouts, street lighting, reflective studs, and updated traffic signage. The GCC has also committed to strict debris management, with contractors required to transport surplus materials to designated dumping sites 10 kilometers away. Violations will attract heavy penalties. Originally announced in 2019, the project has faced some delays in finalizing tenders and selecting contractors. Civic officials have now confirmed that work is ready to begin. The bridges are expected to improve the flow of traffic and safety, benefiting thousands of commuters once they are completed.