Thu Nov 06 06:20:10 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
A new foot over bridge (FOB) near a popular mall in Aminjikarai, Chennai, is nearing completion. The ₹15.25 crore project aims to improve pedestrian safety on Poonamallee High Road. It includes staircases, elevators, and escalators. Local residents and officials express optimism that the FOB will reduce pedestrian accidents and ease traffic congestion. However, concerns are raised about a nearby liquor shop (Tasmac) potentially causing problems and attracting loiterers to the FOB.
News Article:
Chennai Foot Over Bridge Nears Completion, Promising Safer Pedestrian Crossing
Chennai, India – November 6, 2025 – A much-anticipated foot over bridge (FOB) on Poonamallee High Road in Aminjikarai is on track to open soon, offering a safer crossing point for pedestrians and easing traffic congestion in the busy area. The ₹15.25 crore project, located near a popular mall, is nearing the final stages of completion, according to the Highways Department.
The 54.15-meter-long and 5.08-meter-wide FOB will feature two sets of staircases, two elevators, and four escalators (two up and two down), making it accessible for a wide range of users. “The civil work has been completed. We have installed all the machinery and at present, testing is under way,” stated sources within the Highways Department.
Local residents are optimistic about the positive impact of the FOB. Selvaraj Ramakrishnan, a resident of Anna Nagar, noted the frequent presence of schoolchildren crossing the dangerous junction. Ward 102 Councillor K. Rani echoed these sentiments, highlighting the potential for reduced pedestrian accidents, especially given the proximity of schools and hospitals on Nelson Manickam Road. “Many schools and hospitals are located near Nelson Manickam Road, so people from the Anna Nagar side will find it very useful once opened. A lot of accidents happen involving pedestrians, so I urge that the Highways Department open it soon,” she said.
However, the project is not without its concerns. One Aminjikarai resident, wishing to remain anonymous, raised the issue of a nearby Tasmac (liquor) shop. The resident expressed fear that the area under the FOB staircases could become a gathering place for intoxicated individuals, negating some of the safety benefits. While Councillor Rani stated that she has not received complaints regarding the mentioned Tasmac shop, she confirmed that she took steps to remove another shop nearby as there were complaints about it. The opening date of the FOB has not yet been announced, but with testing underway, local residents are hopeful it will be available soon.
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