Repair works on road under bridge begins at Kollampalayam

Restoration of the damaged portion of the road under bridge (RUB) at Kollampalayam on the Vellakovil–Sankari National Highway 381A began on Thursday night and is expected to be completed in a few days.

The underpass, a key access point for vehicles entering the city, was earlier maintained by the State Highways Department and was declared a National Highway last May. A poor stormwater drain system was causing frequent water stagnation, affecting traffic flow. Although restoration works were carried out three times this year, the concrete and the railings over the drain channel were damaged again last month, hampering vehicle movement. Heavy vehicles continue to ply on the damaged stretch, further weakening the structure and railings.

On Thursday evening, Minister for Housing, Prohibition and Excise S. Muthusamy inspected the spot and held discussions with officials. It was proposed to install speed-breakers over the drainage channel to prevent frequent damage.

Following his directions, the Highways Department, along with the Corporation, began repair work at 9.30 p.m. on Thursday, which continued on Friday. Vehicles heading towards Kalaimadu Silai Junction were diverted through Nadarmedu, Shastri Nagar, and Chennimalai Road to enter Erode city.