NH delays choke north TVM commute

T'puram: Delay in completing the approach road for Vettu Road flyover under NH 66 expansion project is worsening traffic congestion in northern parts of the capital, affecting office commuters, schoolchildren and public transport services, with residents fearing further disruption during the monsoon.The flyover, one of four flyovers being constructed as part of 29.83-km Kazhakkoottam-Kadampattukonam six-laning project, was earlier expected to be opened for traffic this month. However, incomplete approach road works suggest commuters may have to endure congestion for several more months. School vans leaving Pallipuram around 7am reportedly take nearly an hour to reach Vettu Road during peak hours, highlighting severity of bottlenecks on the stretch. Locals said prolonged traffic snarls have become part of daily life. Vignesh V, a Technopark employee who regularly uses the route, said worsening congestion has made commuting unpredictable. "I cannot afford to be late for work, but traffic on this stretch can worsen at any time. The congestion not only delays commuters but also creates anxiety due to uncertainty over travel time," he said. "Delays have become common and travelling through the stretch during peak hours is stressful," said Ajil K Dev, a student. The prolonged construction activity has also affected businesses in Kaniyapuram, where traders allege reduced customer footfall and severe dust pollution. Locals say congestion is impacting operations at the nearby KSRTC depot as well. Officials attributed the delay partly to difficulties in sourcing suitable dry soil required for raising the approach road. However, some residents questioned the explanation, noting that work on the stretch has remained incomplete for months. With monsoon rains beginning in the state, commuters fear delays could continue, prolonging congestion along the road. NHAI officials said work on the project is progressing at full pace but acknowledged that heavy rains could affect timelines.