Mon Jul 07 19:16:57 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

A large crack has appeared on Sheshadripuram 1st Main Road in Annai Indira Nagar, Velachery, Chennai. Residents fear a possible cave-in. Officials from the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) suspect nearby construction work is the cause, specifically drilling that may have caused reverberations. Work at the construction site has been halted, and an investigation is underway to determine if the contractor is liable. Road restoration is planned within a few days. Authorities are also investigating potential damage to infrastructure like stormwater drains and pipelines and conducting a third-party assessment of the site.

**News Article:**

**Large Crack Halts Traffic in Velachery, Chennai; Construction Suspected**

**CHENNAI, July 8, 2025** – A significant crack has emerged on Sheshadripuram 1st Main Road in Annai Indira Nagar, Velachery, raising concerns about a possible cave-in and disrupting traffic. The crack, located opposite Perungudi Station Road, reportedly widened rapidly on Monday, causing alarm among residents.

Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) officials suspect nearby construction activity is to blame. “Drilling or of the hard rock below the black soil in this area may have caused reverberations throughout the surroundings, leading to cracks in the road,” one official stated.

Following an inspection, the GCC has ordered a halt to all construction work at the site. Regional Deputy Commissioner (South) Aftab Rasool confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine if legal action will be taken against the private contractor responsible for the work. Road restoration is expected to take two to three days.

Residents have voiced concerns about the impact on neighboring buildings, prompting calls for a thorough inspection. One resident claimed the issue began with excavation work for the construction site’s foundation.

In addition to the road damage, authorities are examining the potential impact on underground infrastructure. “The possible damage of stormwater drains, pipelines and cables will be checked by concerned officials on Tuesday, and a third-party inspection and assessment of the site, probably by experts from the Anna University, will also be done,” said another GCC official.

DMK Councillor S. Baskaran (Ward 178) has confirmed that barricades have been erected to prevent vehicular access, while pedestrian access remains open.

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