Formation of new road from Panjapur to Karumandapam makes steady progress

Formation of a new road from Panjapur to Karumandapam along the Koraiyar in the city is making steady progress.

It is part of the 9.8-km-long road project, beginning from the right bank of the Koraiyar near the terminus to the right bank of the Kudamurutti near the police check post on Tiruchi-Karur National Highway. Tiruchi Corporation, with the aim of speedy formation of the road, has divided the procject into three phases. While the first phase of the project will cover a 2-km distance along the Koraiyar from Panjapur to Karumandapam, the second phase will cover 5.75 km from Karumandapam to Woraiyur, The third phase will be executed for a distance of 2.150 km from Woraiyur to Kudamuriti bridge. All three phases of the project is expected to cost ₹330 crore.

The first phase from Panjapur to Karumandapam is being executed at a cost of ₹81.72 crore. As per the plan, the two-lane road will have a width of 10 metres. An elevated road will be formed over the railway track with an overbridge. The elevated road will be 1.37 km long. A separate road will be formed for 200 metres to connect the Rettamalai Temple. Construction of a retaining wall for 2.250 km is among the components of Phase I.

Work on the first phase, which began in May, is supposed to be completed within 18 months from the issuance of work order. However, it is said that it is progressing at a fast pace. Unlike the third phase, the first phase does not involve land acquisition, thereby facilitating the contractor to mobilise men and machines to start laying the road without delay.

According to sources, a team of migrant workers have been involved in the work. For strengthening the existing bund of the river, earth movers have been engaged to form the road with gravel being transported to the project site. Except for some short distances, the road has almost been formed. Similarly, work on the pillars for the elevated road have also been progressing well.

An official of the Corporation said that nearly 50% of the road formation work had been completed. It would get a clear shape within two months. Chances were bright for completion of work well before the stipulated period.