Sun Mar 23 18:18:31 UTC 2025: ## Chennai Schools and Hospitals Face Pedestrian Safety Crisis Amidst Rising Traffic
**Chennai, March 24, 2025** – Residents of Chennai are expressing growing concerns over the lack of pedestrian safety infrastructure near schools and hospitals, particularly in the face of increased traffic congestion due to ongoing Metro construction. Several complaints highlight the absence of adequate pedestrian facilities and properly installed speed breakers, leading to increased risks for children and other pedestrians.
Ahmed Sirajuddin, a school principal in Perambur, points to speeding motorcycles and inaccessible pavements near Jamalia Higher Secondary School and Everwin School as major hazards. He urged civic agencies to implement a comprehensive campaign to improve safety, suggesting the creation of school zones with traffic restrictions similar to international models.
Echoing these concerns, former GCC engineer N. Mathavan highlighted the dangerous conditions near the Vijayanagar Bus Terminus, calling for collaboration between the GCC and the Highways Department to address the issue. Ward 104 Councillor T.V. Shemmozhi confirmed the lack of pedestrian facilities in Anna Nagar’s school zones, specifically near SBOA School and Chinmaya Vidyalaya.
K.P. Subramanian, a former Anna University professor, emphasized the need for clearly defined school zones, encompassing the surrounding road network, bus stops, junctions, parking areas, and entry/exit points. He stressed the importance of clear and legible traffic control devices. The lack of infrastructure is placing children and pedestrians at significant risk, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive action by city authorities.
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