Coimbatore residents demand for rail overbridge at Vellakinar remains unfulfilled

COIMBATORE: The long-pending demand of motorists and commuters for a rail overbridge at Vellakinar in Coimbatore remains unfulfilled, as frequent closures of the railway gate continue to disrupt travel plans.“The number of vehicles passing through the railway gate has increased significantly over the years. The gate, closed multiple times a day for train movements, has become a major bottleneck, leading to long queues and growing frustration among commuters,” said M Devendran, secretary of the Coimbatore District Road Safety Association.According to him, it takes a minimum of 15 to 20 minutes to cross the gate after it reopens. “Those who travel to schools, colleges and IT companies in the area mainly use this road,” he added.Residents pointed out the challenges they faced when the gate was closed during peak hours in the morning and evening. “Traffic comes to a standstill, affecting students, daily wage earners, and other commuters,” said B Rajesh, a resident.“Constructing a rail overbridge and developing this stretch would help reduce the vehicle load on the road, which connects both Mettupalayam Road and Sathyamangalam Road,” he added.Residents argue that the bridge is essential not only to ease traffic congestion but also to ensure timely access for ambulances and emergency services, which are often delayed during gate closures.