Perambur pedestrian subway in bad shape, reveals gap in basic upkeep

Chennai: Despite recent patchwork improvements at Perambur Loco Works railway pedestrian subway, several key safety and maintenance concerns remain unresolved. No concrete timeline has been given for further action. Residents and passengers complained that the absence of CCTV surveillance around the subway and booking office continues to leave the stretch vulnerable. Meanwhile, unfinished civil works and exposed electrical wiring inside the subway highlight gaps in basic upkeep.

Regular commuters say that many no longer jaywalk across railway tracks. They prefer the subway as the safer, designated route.

Locals say the wall has been rebuilt and secured with a locked gate, preventing direct access to the tracks. However, the structure remains incomplete, as the newly constructed concrete surface of the subway is yet to be plastered. Commuters warn that any further delay could expose the wall to early deterioration and possible vandalism

“Only the compound wall has been constructed; other issues persist. There are no CCTV cameras around the subway and the station, except at the railway booking office. Locals fear that the area could become vulnerable to anti-social elements, especially during early morning and late evening hours,” said C Raghukumar, convener of Perambur neighbourhood development forum.

Passengers urged authorities to expedite the installation of surveillance systems. Regulars who use the subway pointed out that one of the key LED lights inside the subway has stopped functioning, and its electrical wiring has been exposed.

The faulty installation has raised both safety and maintenance concerns among regular users, who have called for immediate rectification.