Former Minister Thoppu N.D. Venkatachalam has petitioned the Erode district administration to restart the ₹65.50-crore road widening project, citing severe safety hazards caused by incomplete construction.

  • Project aims to expand the two-lane Perundurai-Chennimalai stretch into a four-lane highway.
  • Total project cost is estimated at ₹65.50 crore under the 2026-27 Integrated Roads Development Scheme.
  • Work has been suspended for over a month due to rising material costs.

In a significant move to address public safety and infrastructure delays, former Minister Thoppu N.D. Venkatachalam (also known as N.D. Venkatachalam) has urged the Erode district administration to take immediate action to resume the widening of the Perundurai–Chennimalai road. The request was made during the weekly grievances redress meeting held at the Collectorate on Monday.

The project, which commenced on February 20, 2026, is a critical component of the Erode–Perundurai–Kangeyam State Highway. The objective is to transform the two-lane stretch from the Perundurai Old Bus Stand to Chennimalai into a modern four-lane highway. However, despite the initial momentum, the project has hit a standstill for more than a month.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the suspension of critical infrastructure projects often stems from a misalignment between fixed-price contracts and volatile market rates for raw materials. When contractors abandon sites without proper safety protocols, the state's liability increases, and the public bears the physical risk.

The current state of the road is precarious. Deep trenches have been excavated on both sides of the highway, and bridge constructions remain half-finished. These open excavations pose a lethal risk to motorists, especially during nighttime or poor visibility, as they lack adequate warning signs and safety barriers.

"The failure to maintain site safety during project suspensions is a systemic lapse in contract management that puts thousands of lives at risk daily."

Historically, the Erode region has seen a surge in industrial activity, leading to heavy vehicular traffic. The Perundurai–Chennimalai stretch is a vital artery for transporting goods and commuters. The delay in completing this widening project not only hinders regional logistics but also increases the likelihood of road accidents in a high-traffic zone.

Did You Know?: The Integrated Roads Development Scheme is designed to synchronize state and central funding to ensure high-speed connectivity between industrial hubs and rural markets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Why did the contractor stop the work?
A: The contractor reportedly stopped work citing a significant rise in the cost of construction materials.

Q2: What specific safety measures has the former minister requested?
A: He has demanded the immediate installation of safety barricades, warning signs, and adequate night-time lighting at vulnerable locations.