Trichy-Thanjavur Highway Service Roads to Maintain 7-Metre Width, Officials Clarify
In a significant development for infrastructure in the region, authorities in Trichy have officially confirmed that there will be no reduction in the width of service roads planned along the Trichy–Thanjavur National Highway. This clarification comes directly from officials on Tuesday, following growing concerns and apprehensions raised by local residents regarding the ongoing land acquisition process for this critical highway project.
Resident Concerns Prompt Official Response
The clarification was issued after residents of Thiruverumbur expressed serious apprehension about a potential reduction in the service road width. Their concerns were primarily based on a reported and noticeable drop in the total land acquisition area from 35.5 hectares in 2011 to 15.7 hectares in 2023. This substantial decrease led many to fear that the service roads might be narrowed as a cost-cutting measure, potentially impacting traffic flow and safety.
Detailed Explanation from Highway Authorities
Highway officials provided a detailed and thorough explanation to address these concerns. They confirmed unequivocally that 7-metre-wide service roads will be constructed on both sides of the highway stretch between Palpannai and Thuvakudi. The width of these carriageways will remain unchanged and fully compliant with planned specifications.
The reduction in land acquisition, authorities explained, was not due to any change in the service road dimensions. Instead, it resulted from a strategic rationalisation of utility land originally earmarked for pipelines and other ancillary infrastructure along the highway corridor. By optimising the space allocated for these utilities, the overall project footprint was reduced, leading to significant cost savings without compromising the core road infrastructure.
Official Statement and Project Rationale
A senior official involved in the project stated clearly, "Service roads will be 7 metres wide; the width will not be reduced under any circumstances. The land requirement was rationalised specifically to reduce the overall project cost and improve efficiency, not to alter the road specifications."
This move is part of a broader effort to streamline the Trichy–Thanjavur National Highway expansion, ensuring it meets modern standards while being fiscally responsible. The assurance aims to alleviate public worries and foster greater transparency in large-scale public infrastructure projects, which often face scrutiny during land acquisition phases.
The clarification is expected to reassure residents and stakeholders that the project will proceed as planned, with service roads maintaining their designated width to support safe and efficient travel along this vital national corridor.
