Mon Nov 04 19:08:40 UTC 2024: ## Chennai’s Ganesapuram Subway to Close for Redesign and Bridge Construction
**Chennai, India (November 5, 2024):** In a bid to combat chronic flooding issues, the Ganesapuram subway, notorious for being the city’s lowest and most flood-prone location, will be closed for a week starting Wednesday. This closure is part of a comprehensive plan initiated by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to prevent flooding near railway tracks in Chennai.
The subway will undergo redesigning to accommodate only two-wheelers. A new bridge, costing ₹226 crore, will be built at the location and is expected to be operational for other vehicles by April 2025.
The closure is intended to expedite the construction of flood-resilient infrastructure, including the bridge and a culvert. Traffic will be diverted through alternative routes during this period.
In addition to the Ganesapuram project, the Railways has also agreed to construct another culvert near Perambur railway station to mitigate flooding in the area.
The new bridge will be 678 meters long and will improve connectivity between Poonamallee High Road and Grand Northern Trunk Road, particularly during monsoon season.
The Chennai Corporation plans to expedite the culvert project near the Ganesapuram subway to drain floodwater from Perambur and surrounding areas to Otteri Nullah. A sump and pumping arrangement will also be constructed for flood mitigation during high tides.
The demolition of residential and commercial properties along Dr. Ambedkar College Road will commence next week to make way for the bridge construction. Over 20 properties in Ward 45 and Ward 71 are expected to be demolished after land acquisition is completed.
Traffic diversions, implemented from Wednesday for a week on a trial basis, are in place to facilitate the flyover construction work.
First Piper 