Chennai: A malfunctioning traffic signal at the Ramaswami Mudalaiyar School junction near Ambattur has led to severe traffic congestion, rampant wrong-side driving, and significant inconvenience for motorists. Residents are urging authorities to restore normal traffic flow at the earliest.
Key Corridor Affected
The 12-kilometer Ambattur-Red Hills Road serves as a vital corridor connecting areas such as Puzhal, Surapet, Kallikuppam, Kathirvedu, and Ambattur OT. With the rapid growth of residential neighborhoods, schools, and commercial establishments, this stretch witnesses heavy traffic throughout the day.
Signal Barricaded for Two Weeks
The signal was barricaded and closed nearly two weeks ago. Vehicles traveling from Cholambedu Road towards TI Cycle Factory and Ambattur railway station are now being diverted through Krishnapuram, Raaki Theatre, and Ambattur OT Bus Stand, forcing motorists to take a longer route. Residents from Nehru Nagar, Sathyapuram, Thiruvengada Nagar, Vivek Nagar, and Krishnapuram said the diversion has increased travel time and shifted traffic onto narrow interior roads.
Since vehicles cannot cross at the junction, many riders travel nearly 300 meters ahead to take a U-turn, while others choose to drive against traffic to save time, residents reported.
Safety Concerns Near Schools
“With three schools in the locality, a non-functional signal is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. Almost every day, accidents occur, and people suffer injuries. There are no traffic police personnel to regulate traffic,” said M Arun Prakash, a resident of Ambattur.
S Suresh, president of the United Welfare Association, Ambattur, said motorists traveling from Avadi and Thirumullaivoyal frequently use Cholambedu High Road to avoid congestion at Ambattur OT. “Since the junction near the private school is barricaded, many motorists continue on the wrong side for nearly 250 meters before driving onto the correct lane,” he said.
Evening Congestion Worsens
He also said, “Every day after 6 pm, it takes at least 45 minutes to travel 3 kilometers from our residential area to Ambattur telephone exchange. Pushcart eateries and haphazard parking of vehicles worsen the traffic congestion.”
Authorities Respond
Traffic police officers said the signal has been malfunctioning due to electrical issues. “A proposal has been sent to replace the signal pole, and necessary action will be taken at the earliest. Motorists riding on the wrong side will be fined,” an officer said.
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