Motorists complain of poor lighting on OMR; TNRDC to install lights

Motorists complain of poor lighting on OMR; TNRDC to install lights

## OMR Drivers Face Hazardous Conditions Due to Inadequate Lighting; TNRDC Announces Remedial Measures

**Chennai, India** – Commuters traversing the Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR), a vital artery connecting Chennai to its burgeoning IT corridor, are voicing increasing concerns over inadequate lighting conditions, particularly during nighttime hours. The lack of sufficient illumination, coupled with the deteriorated state of service lanes, is creating hazardous driving conditions and raising anxieties among motorists.

The OMR, known as the IT Expressway, witnesses a significant influx of traffic daily, comprising employees heading to and from work, residents accessing essential services, and commercial vehicles transporting goods. However, the insufficient street lighting, especially along stretches devoid of commercial establishments, leaves drivers reliant on the headlights of oncoming vehicles, significantly reducing visibility and increasing the risk of accidents.

“Navigating OMR at night has become a nerve-wracking experience,” stated Ravi Shankar, a frequent commuter who works in an IT park along the road. “The darkness is almost complete in some areas. You’re constantly straining your eyes, trying to anticipate potholes and other hazards. It’s only the lights from the shops that offer any real guidance, and those are few and far between in many sections.”

The poorly lit service lanes, often riddled with potholes and uneven surfaces, further exacerbate the problem. These lanes are frequently used by two-wheelers and pedestrians, making them particularly vulnerable in the absence of adequate illumination. The lack of visibility significantly increases the potential for collisions between vehicles and vulnerable road users.

The concerns raised by motorists have prompted a response from the Tamil Nadu Road Development Corporation (TNRDC), the agency responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of OMR. In a statement released earlier today, TNRDC announced plans to install additional streetlights along the affected stretches of the arterial road.

“We are aware of the challenges faced by motorists due to the inadequate lighting on OMR,” the statement read. “We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all road users. As a result, we have initiated a project to install new, high-intensity streetlights along the critical sections of the road. This initiative will significantly improve visibility and reduce the risk of accidents.”

The TNRDC further stated that the project will prioritize areas identified as high-risk zones based on accident data and feedback from commuters. The installation of new lights is expected to commence within the next few weeks and is projected to be completed within a timeframe of three months. The corporation also indicated that it is exploring options for repairing and resurfacing the damaged service lanes to further enhance road safety.

While the announcement has been welcomed by commuters, many remain cautiously optimistic. They emphasize the importance of ensuring the quality of the new lighting infrastructure and the timely completion of the project. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs of any future lighting failures will also be crucial in maintaining the effectiveness of the initiative.

The OMR serves as a critical link in Chennai’s infrastructure, facilitating economic growth and connecting communities. Addressing the concerns surrounding inadequate lighting is paramount to ensuring the safety and convenience of the thousands of individuals who rely on this vital road network daily. The TNRDC’s commitment to improving lighting conditions represents a significant step towards creating a safer and more efficient transportation corridor for the city. The successful implementation of this project will not only alleviate the anxieties of commuters but also contribute to a more secure and accessible urban environment for all.

This article was created based on information from various sources and rewritten for clarity and originality.