Trichy MP Demands Urgent Safety Measures on National Highway Near Airport
Trichy MP Durai Vaiko has issued a strong appeal to authorities to address critical safety hazards on the Trichy–Pudukottai National Highway, particularly in the vicinity of the international airport. In formal representations submitted to the Trichy city police, Trichy Corporation, and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the MP emphasized the urgent need for preventive actions along this busy corridor, which serves as a vital link connecting the airport, police offices, and numerous educational institutions.
Highlighting Recent Fatal Accidents and Infrastructure Flaws
The stretch has been the site of two recent fatal accidents, raising alarm bells about road safety. Durai Vaiko pointed to multiple median openings that allow for sudden and unpredictable crossings by two-wheeler riders and pedestrians, creating significant risks for motorists. He has urged NHAI to conduct a thorough assessment and close those median openings that are underutilized or deemed unnecessary for traffic flow.
Additionally, the MP called on the city police to upgrade the safety infrastructure along the highway. He noted that several existing barricades lack reflective stickers, posing severe dangers to drivers at night when visibility is reduced. To mitigate this, he recommended the installation of high-quality, reflective barricades along the entire 3-kilometer stretch between the TVS tollgate and the airport entrance.
Addressing Illumination Issues and Community Concerns
Responding to complaints from local residents, Durai Vaiko also highlighted the poor illumination along a specific portion of the highway that runs perpendicular to the airport runway. He has asked the Trichy Corporation to improve street lighting in this area, ensuring that any enhancements do not interfere with airport operations or compromise aviation safety.
The safety concerns were previously brought to light in a Times of India report titled "Barricades meant for safety add to danger on Trichy NHs" published on February 26. In his statements, the MP confirmed that NHAI officials have been instructed to conduct a detailed review of the National Highway stretch in collaboration with traffic police and other stakeholders to develop comprehensive road safety enhancements.
Durai Vaiko stressed that proactive measures are essential to prevent further accidents and protect the lives of commuters, including students, airport travelers, and daily commuters who rely on this critical transportation route.
