Chennai: Motorists heading towards Tidel Park on the Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR) need to be extra cautious while turning right near the Indira Nagar MRTS station, as several vehicles are making illegal wrong-side U-turns at the spot, leading to a high risk of collision with oncoming traffic.
Signal Installation and Signage
Soon after the L-shaped Madhya Kailash flyover was opened, traffic police installed a signal near the MRTS station, situated between the two U-shaped flyovers on this stretch. Signage clearly indicates that vehicles heading towards Tidel Park can take a U-turn at the signal, but motorists traveling from Tidel Park to Sardar Patel Road are strictly prohibited from doing so. However, these rules are being blatantly violated on a regular basis.
Commuter Complaints
Rishikesan, a regular commuter, shared his experience: "This happens more frequently after 9pm when the roads are freer and vehicles pick up speed. An auto driver made an abrupt U-turn near the spot one night, and I almost fell as my scooter skidded." He added that some barricades have been kicked down to facilitate the illegal maneuver.
D Balaji, vice-president of the Kasturba Nagar South Residents' Welfare Association, noted that a similar problem persists near the Kasturba Nagar MRTS station, indicating a broader issue along the corridor.
Police Response
A traffic police officer acknowledged the problem, stating that the signal was installed at the request of residents but admitted it has introduced more problems than solutions. "Personnel are usually posted during peak hours. However, due to election duty, we have been unable to deploy adequate manpower over the past two weeks," he explained. The lack of enforcement has emboldened violators, especially during late hours when traffic is lighter.
Residents and commuters urge authorities to take stricter action, including increased patrolling and installation of better barricades, to prevent accidents on this busy stretch.
