Project overview: Tackling flood risks
The Okkiyam Maduvu bridge expansion in Chennai is aimed at improving water flow through the Pallikaranai marshland, a key step in reducing flood risks that became apparent during Cyclone Michaung in December 2023.
Previous bridge limitations
The earlier bridge featured a 90-metre waterway with low vertical clearance, which was insufficient to handle excess water during heavy rains. This bottleneck contributed to significant flooding in surrounding areas, highlighting the need for a major infrastructure upgrade.
New design specifications
The new structure is designed with a 205-metre waterway and an extra 1.5-metre vertical clearance, allowing more water to pass quickly and reducing the risk of flooding downstream.
Completion of steel spans
CMRL has completed fabrication and deck-slab casting for three 40-metre steel spans on both sides of the existing bridge, a key step in widening the waterway.
Progress on waterway clearance
The upstream part is totally open with the waterway widened to 120 meters in width. The downstream part is 80% cleared, which will open fully between the 8th to 10th of September in 2025.
Approach span construction
Construction work on the approach spans is ongoing. These spans will connect the bridge to the city’s road network, ensuring smooth traffic flow once the bridge is operational.
Integration with road network
Once completed, the new bridge will be connected with the road network of Chennai. This will help people move through the area without any hassle
Timeline and public use
The expansion project is expected to finish in September 2025. The new bridge will not only act as a flood-mitigation structure when opened; it will also function as a public road for the Chennai residents.