Wed Dec 03 05:44:04 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summary based on the provided text:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Heavy Vehicles Banned During Peak Hours on Thirumukkudal Bridge Following Resident Concerns
CHENNAI, India – December 3, 2025 – In response to safety concerns raised by residents, students, and commuters, authorities in Kancheepuram district have implemented a ban on heavy vehicle traffic crossing the Thirumukkudal bridge over the Palar River during peak hours. The decision, finalized in a meeting between residents, quarry owners, and local police, restricts trucks from using the bridge between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, and again from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
The action follows a recent protest spurred by the death of a local mason, S. Sakthivel, who was killed by a truck. Residents cited reckless driving and a lack of lighting as contributing factors to the bridge’s reputation for accidents.
Salavakkam Inspector T. Balachandran stated that fines of ₹1 lakh would be imposed on trucks found speeding or carrying excessive weight. Quarry owners have also pledged to install solar-powered lighting on the bridge within a month, repair 3 km of damaged roads, and ensure trucks are covered to minimize dust.
This action aims to improve pedestrian safety and address long-standing traffic issues related to quarry activity in the area.
First Piper 