Avinashi Road flyover in Coimbatore city faces fresh issues

A flyover for about 10 km on Avinashi Road in Coimbatore city, which is nearing completion, is facing fresh issues that not only threaten to delay the works but also put the safety of motorists and pedestrians at risk.

In an order dated May 22, 2025, the Madras High Court ordered that four pillars (for an upward ramp) should be constructed according to the original design with a span measuring 30 metres. Of these, two pillars should be razed down and reconstructed either at the original position or slightly away, even if the pillars are now partially or fully completed.

The Highways Department has filed an appeal against the order. An official of the Department said that in several parts of the flyover the span is more than 30 metres and construction vehicles are using the flyover at present. Hence, there are no safety risks, the official opined. “We will not compromise on safety and design and the designs have been approved at multiple levels,” the official added. The flyover will have totally eight ramps.

He said the main flyover is likely to get over by the end of next month as the deck work is pending near Hope College.

Another issue is regarding provisions for pedestrian crossing. The original plan was to have five subways at ₹15 crores. However, there is no plan for a subway now. “Subways cannot be constructed on Avinashi Road for multiple reasons. We are ready to construct foot over bridges. However, one of the alignments for the proposed metro rail project is along the Avinashi Road and there are plans for foot over bridges in the metro project too. Hence, if there is a need, traffic signals can be installed instead,” the official suggested.

K. Kathirmathiyon, secretary of the Coimbatore Consumer Cause, said the consumer organisation has issued a legal notice to the Department regarding pedestrian crossing facilities and if needed, it will approach the Supreme Court too in this matter. “There is no specific timeline for the metro rail project and the two projects should not be linked. Subways were part of the original plan and the District Road Safety Committee had approved it. The Highways Department cannot change this plan and drop the works for pedestrian crossings,” he said.

There are also reports that service roads may not be laid in some places beyond the ramps and that land has not be acquired for the service road in some places. The official said a single-lane service road will be laid on either side of Avinashi road for the entire 10.1 km of the flyover.