Sun Jan 05 18:45:23 UTC 2025: ## Residents Demand Bridge Over Decades-Old Level Crossing Near Gudiyatham
**Vellor, January 6, 2025** – Residents of 15 villages near Gudiyatham, Tamil Nadu, are demanding the construction of a bridge over a decades-old level crossing in Kilpatti village, citing significant delays and inconvenience caused by frequent train closures. The level crossing, located on the shortest route to neighboring towns, forces motorists to endure lengthy waits, deterring buses and container lorries from using the route.
The arduous detour, compounded by impassable village roads, has prompted residents to present a petition to the Collector. Subsequently, Revenue and Railway officials inspected the site, exploring the feasibility of a subway as a potentially cheaper and quicker alternative. However, residents oppose a subway, fearing its inaccessibility during floods, a common occurrence in the low-lying area.
The existing situation disproportionately impacts workers commuting to tanneries in Ambur and Pernambut, adding considerable travel time. Ambulances also face significant delays, with detours of up to 12 km to reach villages, impacting emergency response times. The residents argue that a bridge is crucial for improving connectivity, reducing travel times, and ensuring timely access to healthcare. While the railway officials cite the higher cost and longer construction time for a bridge, the residents emphasize the critical need to address the ongoing hardship caused by the current situation.
First Piper 