Coimbatore's Critical Road Widening Project Remains Stalled for Over Five Years
The Tamil Nadu government approved a crucial road widening project for Coimbatore more than five years ago. This project aims to ease severe traffic congestion on the busy Vadavalli-Marudhamalai stretch. Despite this approval and substantial funding allocation, construction work has yet to begin.
Daily Commuter Nightmare on Narrow Two-Lane Road
Thousands of commuters face daily struggles on this inadequate roadway. Residents from Vadavalli, IOB Colony, Marudhamalai, and surrounding areas use this route every day. Devotees traveling to the famous Marudhamalai Murugan Temple also depend on this road.
The current two-lane road simply cannot handle this volume of traffic. During peak hours, the situation becomes particularly difficult. Even minor accidents can bring all movement to a complete standstill.
Auto driver R Murugesan from P N Pudur describes the driving experience as extremely challenging. "The road is very narrow," he explains. "During busy times, it becomes nearly impossible to navigate safely."
Project History and Current Status
Authorities first proposed expanding this 4.6-kilometer stretch in 2018. The government formally approved the project in 2020, allocating Rs46 crore for implementation. The plan involves transforming the existing two-lane road into a proper four-lane thoroughfare.
This expansion would connect with the already widened section from Lawley Road to Vadavalli. That improved segment serves important institutions including Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Bharathiar University, and Government Law College.
Now, the State Highway Department is attempting to revive the stalled initiative. Officials have submitted a revised proposal to the state government for fresh approval.
Land Acquisition Challenges Delay Progress
Land acquisition presents the primary obstacle to moving forward. The government allocated Rs13.83 crore specifically for purchasing necessary land along the route. Authorities approved the revised land plan schedule in January 2023 and issued formal notifications that October.
"The stretch contains many private buildings," explains a senior highway official. "While some landowners have cooperated, others refuse to part with their property. We may need to pursue legal action for these remaining parcels."
District Collector Pavankumar G Giriyappanavar reports that land acquisition is nearly complete. He anticipates the highway department will begin construction work starting January 25.
Growing Urgency for Completion
Local residents express frustration over the prolonged delays. Vadavalli resident C Gowtham describes travel on this road as "a nightmare," particularly on weekends. He emphasizes that road widening would benefit both local communities and temple visitors.
Coimbatore Consumer Cause secretary K Kathirmathiyon calls the five-year delay unacceptable. He warns that traffic will increase further once the Western Ring Road project finishes. This makes the widening project even more urgent.
Kathirmathiyon also highlights practical concerns about timing. Land values have risen significantly since officials prepared the original land plan. He suggests work should begin before February 2026 to avoid election-related delays.
The highway official confirms that once the government allocates funds based on their revised estimate, work can commence immediately. After years of stagnation, this critical infrastructure project may finally see progress in Coimbatore.
