Highways Dept Seeks Consultants for OMR-ECR Link

The Tamil Nadu Highways Department has invited consultants to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for a proposed road connecting Rajiv Gandhi Salai (OMR) and East Coast Road (ECR) between Sholinganallur and Kovalam. The project aims to reduce traffic congestion on OMR, a major IT corridor that handles around 2 lakh vehicles every day.

Currently, OMR and ECR run parallel to each other until Mamallapuram. The proposed road link could provide an alternative route for motorists travelling towards Chennai, helping reduce pressure on OMR. The contract for preparing the DPR is valued at ₹14.20 lakh, and the selected consultants must complete the report within three months.

The study will cover geographical surveys, route selection, traffic analysis, land-use planning and soil conditions. These assessments will help determine the most suitable alignment for the proposed road.

However, land acquisition remains a major challenge. Janakiraman, a resident of Thoraipakkam, pointed out that earlier efforts to establish a junction in the area had been delayed due to land acquisition problems.

A former Highways Department engineer also highlighted an existing road and high-level bridge connecting Nemmeli and Thiruporur, which were completed using tsunami relief funds. However, the planned road-widening work was halted, leaving the wider connectivity project incomplete.

Sivaraman, a resident of Thiruporur, said the existing road is in poor condition, with damaged surfaces, overgrown bushes and a lack of streetlights. These problems make night-time travel particularly unsafe.

The proposed OMR–ECR connection could improve regional connectivity and provide an alternative route for commuters. However, its progress will depend on the findings of the DPR, land acquisition and the implementation of the subsequent construction work.