WARD REPORT WITH JFW: PERUNGUDI (WARD 182)

Perungudi, Chennai – Residents and commuters in Nehru Nagar, located in Ward 182 of Chennai’s Perungudi (South zone), have been grappling with traffic congestion, twisted roads and waterlogging in recent weeks due to ongoing stormwater drainage work.

The ward, which pre-dominantly consists of narrow by-lanes which are vital connectors between the OMR-IT Expressway in the North and the Velachery-Tambaram Main Road, where heavy traffic flows.

The Greater Chennai Corporation’s project, aimed at preventing flooding during the monsoon, has led to partial road closures and diversions. However, complications emerged after a metro water pipeline was accidentally punctured at the 1st Link Road, reportedly during excavation activities. This has resulted in constant daytime flooding, especially when water supply lines are active.

“This has been going on for nearly two-weeks, making the area inaccessible for us office-goers. There are many companies situated in the area and many are finding it tough to reach work on time due to the condition of these roads,” said L. Kapa Nair, a software engineer.

However, in response to these concerns, ward councillor K. P. K. Sathish Kumar (AIADMK) stated, “We have identified the issue and in a day’s time, the repair work will be carried out, putting an end to water-logging.” “The metro water line breach was unintentional and several departments and contractors are involved in the construction of the drains which may cause delay. This happens around the entire ward in the afternoon hours. But when certain complaints are raised, precise attention is given as well,” he added.

Adding to the frustration is a lack of prior intimation to offices and residents in the area. With no official notice about the road work or diversions, many have found themselves caught in peak-hour traffic snarls.

“Had we been informed in advance, we could have staggered office hours or worked from home on certain days,” said K. Shyamala, an IT professional whose office is located nearby.

School vans, office commuters, and delivery vehicles continue to navigate chaotic conditions in the absence of clear signage or traffic marshals.

The councillor acknowledged the communication gap, assuring that coordination with local residents’ associations will improve moving forward. “Information should have been given. In nearby Santhosh Nagar we had informed everyone but it seemed to have been missed here. This will not occur again. We are working on better ways to keep residents in the loop on infrastructure activity in the ward,” the councillor assured.

As of now, the project is expected to be completed by August 1, 2025, ahead of the northeast monsoon.

Despite the disruptions, many residents are cautiously hopeful. “If the flooding finally stops next year, the short-term inconvenience might be worth it,” said Perumal, a local shopkeeper.

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