The Water Resources Department (WRD) announced on Thursday that the construction of a high-level reinforced cement concrete bridge over the Adyar River, designed to link two sections of the Officers Training Academy (OTA) campus, is now 80% complete. This new bridge will replace an existing causeway that has been identified as a contributing factor to recurrent flooding at Chennai airport during the northeast monsoon.
Flood Concerns and Project Approval
Both the OTA and flood management authorities had raised concerns that the old causeway obstructed the natural flow of the Adyar River, exacerbating flood risks. The obstruction also restricted access to the OTA’s parade ground during heavy rainfall. In response, the southern bench of the National Green Tribunal granted approval for the project in 2017.
Funding and Construction Timeline
The project is funded by the OTA and executed by the WRD. Construction began prior to the last monsoon season, with an 18-month completion schedule, as confirmed by a senior WRD engineer. Pre-stressed girders are currently being installed, and the work is progressing on schedule.
Expected Completion and Handover
The bridge is anticipated to be ready before the onset of this year’s northeast monsoon. Over the coming weeks, inspections and finishing work will be carried out ahead of the formal handover. The WRD engineer assured that the project remains on track to meet its deadline.
