Mon Sep 08 14:14:46 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
Residents of Keela Koottudankadu, near Pudukottai in Thoothukudi district, India, have petitioned the Collectorate demanding the construction of a new subway under the Thoothukudi-Tirunelveli national highway. The villagers state that a newly constructed bridge has increased traffic speeds, making it dangerous to cross the highway to reach Pudukottai for school and other essential needs. Previous requests for a subway and lighting have been ignored, and current barricades force residents to take a long and dangerous detour. The petition was one of over 300 received by the Collector at a weekly grievance meeting, covering various welfare needs.
**News Article:**
**Thoothukudi Villagers Demand Subway for Safe Highway Crossing**
**Thoothukudi, India – September 8, 2025** – Residents of Keela Koottudankadu, a village near Pudukottai in the Thoothukudi district, have filed a petition with the Collectorate, urgently requesting the construction of a subway under the Thoothukudi-Tirunelveli national highway. The petition was submitted at the weekly grievance meeting, which was chaired by Collector K. Elambahavath.
Villagers say that the construction of a bridge on the highway in 2023 has created a hazardous situation. Vehicles now travel at high speeds, making it perilous for residents, including school children, to cross the road to reach Pudukottai for essential services.
“We are forced to risk our lives every day,” stated a representative of the village. “The new bridge has made crossing the highway incredibly dangerous, and we have had several accidents. We need a safe passage.”
The petition highlights that despite previous appeals for a subway and adequate street lighting, no action has been taken. Barricades recently erected at the former crossing point have further complicated the situation, forcing villagers to take a kilometer-long detour to cross at another equally dangerous location.
“This detour is unacceptable, especially for the elderly and children,” said a resident. “A subway is the only way to ensure the safety of our community.”
The Collector received over 300 petitions at the grievance meeting, addressing issues such as welfare assistance, housing schemes, and business loans. District Revenue Officer A. Ravichandran, Differently Abled Welfare Officer Brammanayakam, and other officials were present to address the public’s concerns.
First Piper 