The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has formally appealed to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin, urging his administration to significantly ramp up efforts to strengthen Madurai's urban infrastructure. The party's Madurai urban committee argues that such a push is critical to support industrial development, generate employment, and alleviate the city's crippling traffic congestion.
Core Demands to Ease Traffic and Improve Connectivity
In a detailed letter, CPI(M) district secretary M Ganesan highlighted that Madurai is grappling with severe traffic gridlock, exacerbated by population growth and increased vehicular movement from neighboring districts. To combat this, the party has put forth a series of specific construction proposals.
The party has sought the construction of new flyovers at strategic locations, including near the Madurai bypass, at the Kamaraj bridge over the Vaigai river, and in the Thathaneri-Arapalayam area. Furthermore, they have demanded the reconstruction of aging structures, notably the Mayor Muthu bridge, which is over four decades old.
For pedestrian safety and smoother traffic flow, the CPI(M) has insisted on building pedestrian subways at key high-footfall zones. These locations include the Madurai railway station, Periyar bus stand area, Goripalayam, Mattuthavani, and Palanganatham.
Focus on Civic Amenities and Public Health
Moving beyond transportation, the letter addresses broader civic and environmental concerns. The party has urged the state government to clear and strengthen the canals that enter the city and to deepen local water bodies. This initiative aims to improve the city's capacity for groundwater recharge, a vital resource.
The CPI(M) also called for expediting the ongoing underground sewerage scheme. Among other significant demands are the immediate opening of shops built under the Smart City project at the Periyar bus stand and a reduction in the garbage tax levied on residents.
Boosting Industry and Healthcare Infrastructure
To spur economic growth, the party has proposed the establishment of a new industrial estate on Thoothukudi Main Road. On the healthcare front, a key demand is the setup of a microbiological infectious disease laboratory at the Government Madurai Medical College, which would enhance diagnostic capabilities in the region.
Addressing a community need, the CPI(M) has also requested the allocation of funds for a burial ground in the Jaihindupuram area. These combined demands present a comprehensive vision for Madurai's development, balancing immediate traffic relief with long-term industrial and civic planning.
The ball is now in the court of the state government to consider these proposals and chart a course of action for one of Tamil Nadu's most historic and rapidly growing urban centers.
