Motorists in the Vellalore region can breathe a sigh of relief as the construction of the high-level bridge spanning the Noyyal river has concluded, two years after commencement, and is now open for a trial run. Initially, the bridge is accessible to two-wheelers and cars, with plans to extend usage to heavy vehicles during the trial period. A formal inauguration is pending, awaiting approval from the state government.
This high-level bridge holds strategic significance, connecting Singanallur and Vellalore. Residents from Vellalore and nearby areas, including Pattanam, Kanjikonampalayam, Idayarpalayam, and Podanur, rely on this route to reach Singanallur.
Prior to the construction of this high-level bridge, commuters used a low-level bridge built in 1960 across the Noyyal. However, this bridge would often submerge during periods of heavy river flow and was also damaged, posing risks to motorists. In December 2021, the foundation stone for the high-level bridge was laid with an estimated cost of Rs 4.4 crore. During the construction, a temporary low-level bridge was provided for vehicular movement but was closed in recent months to expedite the completion of the high-level bridge.
Residents express immense relief at the bridge’s completion, noting that the road closure during construction forced them to take longer routes through L&T bypass road and Ondipudur to reach Singanallur.
State highway officials have announced that the chief minister, M K Stalin, will inaugurate the bridge via video conference in the near future. Meanwhile, local residents are urging authorities to desilt the Noyyal river to ensure unrestricted water flow beneath the bridge.