Residents rue traffic, parking chaos in Gopalapuram

Chennai: Unregulated parking coupled with wrong-side driving and narrow roads continue to frustrate residents of Gopalapuram, who have sought immediate redress to these perennial problems.There are more than seven schools in the locality, encompassing Avvai Shanmugam Salai, Padmavathi Road, Conron Smith Road and Ganesh Street. Residents say entering and exiting has become a nightmare even during non-school hours because of numerous vehicles parked on the roads. The issue worsens during school hours. "For a brief time, Avvai Shanmugam Salai was made one-way. But now, they have reversed that," said K Ravichandran, a resident.On Monday, at least 50 vehicles were parked along the road and on pavements. There is no visible policing. Parents, picking up their wards after school, resorted to wrong-side driving, causing traffic blocks. "At least 20 vehicles, including commercial vans and cars, are parked on the road round the clock. They reduce the carriageway to a single lane, promote anti-social activities, obstruct residents' sightlines and prevent conservancy staff from sweeping," said Jeyapore Colony Residents Association (JCRA) president Sivakaminathan. Designated parking bays are also occupied by such vehicles, he added. "Pedestrians are also affected. After school hours, we can see children navigating traffic recklessly. If any emergency arises, no ambulance or fire engine can enter the area," he said.A section of residents said that the recent pavement project, along DAV Boys School, has further shrunk road space. However, an architect connected with the project said, "Traffic movement has to be regulated. The pavements have only made the area safer for students." A senior traffic police officer said that personnel were diverted to Mylapore for the chariot festival. "Otherwise, officers are posted every day to regulate traffic and parking. We need a long-term solution. We will consult with residents and other stakeholders," he added.