Chief Minister M K Stalin officially opened the newly constructed four-lane Melamadai junction flyover in Madurai on Sunday. This significant infrastructure project, built at a cost of ₹150 crore, has been named in honour of the freedom fighter Veeramangai Velu Nachiyar. The flyover is set to become a vital connection between Madurai city and the Sivaganga district.
A Crucial Link to Ease Traffic Congestion
The flyover has been constructed on the busy Madurai-Thondi Road, also known as State Highway 33. It is expected to slash travel time between Goripalayam and the ring road by approximately 10 minutes. The project's scope includes a 950-metre-long four-lane flyover. Additionally, new roundabouts have been built at three key junctions: the collectorate office junction, the Aavin junction, and the Melamadai junction itself.
This development was initially announced by the Chief Minister back in January 2022 as a solution to the persistent and long-standing traffic problems in the area. During the inauguration, the flyover became a spot for public celebration. Families stopped to take selfies against the backdrop of elaborate paintings that adorn the structure, each mural showcasing the heritage landmarks of Madurai and other iconic sites.
Public Celebration and Canal Development Review
The festive atmosphere extended to the Aavin Junction, where a statue depicting the traditional sport of jallikattu became a focal point. A family was seen celebrating a child's birthday by cutting a cake in front of the statue, adding to the day's cheerful moments.
Following the flyover inauguration, Chief Minister Stalin inspected the ongoing development work on the Panthalkudi canal. This separate project is being carried out at an estimated cost of ₹69.2 crore. The comprehensive canal work involves several key measures to improve infrastructure and prevent flooding.
Key Components of the Panthalkudi Canal Project
The canal project includes multiple initiatives aimed at long-term benefits for residents:
- Construction of flood protection walls on both sides of the canal.
- Converting the canal floor into a concrete bed to ensure smoother water flow and prevent seepage.
- Erecting a two-metre-high wire mesh fence along the embankments to stop garbage dumping into the waterway.
- Reconstruction of three existing small bridges across the canal that were found to be damaged.
Once completed, the canal's embankments will be raised by one metre above the current level. Officials stated that these combined measures will significantly reduce flooding and waterlogging during the monsoon season, thereby ensuring safer and healthier living conditions for the local population. The Chief Minister had previously inspected the canal on May 31 and had instructed officials to proceed with the development. During his latest visit, he reviewed the progress and directed the authorities to complete the project at the earliest possible date.
