Tamil Nadu Plans New Road to Ease GST Road Congestion
In a move to decongest the busy Chengalpattu-Tambaram stretch on GST Road, the Tamil Nadu government has proposed a new 32-km greenfield road linking Karunguzhi on GST Road to Poonjeri on East Coast Road (ECR). This initiative aims to provide an alternative route for vehicles traveling towards the southern and eastern parts of the city, reducing travel time and easing traffic pressure.
Public-Private Partnership Model for Development
The Tamil Nadu Road Development Company (TNRDC) has been assigned the task of developing this crucial infrastructure under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. TNRDC officials emphasize that the Chennai-Tindivanam route via NH-32 is a high-density corridor, witnessing over 65,000 passenger car units (PCUs) between Chengalpattu and Tindivanam and nearly 1,000,000 PCUs between Tambaram and Tindivanam daily.
Benefits of the New Road
The proposed road will:
- Divert traffic before Chengalpattu, reducing congestion.
- Improve connectivity between GST Road and ECR, offering a seamless route for commuters.
- Reduce travel time and carbon emissions by cutting down vehicular movement on heavily congested roads.
- Provide direct access to Mamallapuram, enhancing tourism potential.
Challenges and Feasibility Study
An existing 31-km road connects Karunguzhi to Manamathi near the proposed Chennai Peripheral Ring Road (CPRR), linking several state highways and district roads. However, the road lacks sufficient width, and major bridges need construction. Due to these constraints, a new greenfield alignment is being considered.
TNRDC has initiated a tender process to appoint consultants for a detailed feasibility report. The study will explore the best route, assess the need for overbridges and realignments, and determine how to maximize the road’s efficiency.
Complementary Infrastructure Projects
The new road complements other major infrastructure projects, such as:
- Six-laning of ECR between Akkarai and Thiruvanmiyur.
- Elevated road construction from Tidal Park Junction to Uthandi.
- Feasibility study for a sea-link road from Lighthouse to Kottivakkam on ECR.
Sustainable and Future-Ready Transportation
By reducing travel time and congestion, this greenfield road is expected to contribute significantly to environmental sustainability, fuel savings, and economic growth. As Chennai expands, improved connectivity between GST Road and ECR will play a crucial role in shaping the city’s urban transport network.