CHENNAI: It has been more than two months since cyclone Vardah ripped through Chennai. However, there continue to be some stark reminders of the damage sustained by the city’s infrastructure on December 12 and one of them was that several Mass Rapid Transport System (MRTS) stations had their roofs blown away which are yet to be repaired.
The elevated railway line that was first commissioned in 1995, connects Chennai Beach to Velachery with a network of 17 stations. When the cyclone made its landfall near Chennai and winds blowing at great intensity, the polycarbonate roofs of several stations were damaged leaving gaping holes through which passengers waiting on the platform are exposed to elements. On Wednesday, Express visited select MRTS stations, and found none of the roofs have been replaced. For example, Chepauk, Thiruvalikeni, Light House and Mundakanniamman Koil stations continued to have damaged overhead shelters.
Railway officials, when contacted, say they have already completed a damage assessment survey and repair work will soon be taken up. Speaking to Express, a senior divisional railway official said, “We have identified 12 stations on the MRTS network that require repair work. The estimated expenditure of `13 crore will be sanctioned by the headquarters.”
Passengers concerned about the poorly maintained stations said the roofs give MRTS station a distinct look and were often used as backdrop for photographs. “Beyond the visual aesthetic, the damaged roofs have left us exposed. At Chepauk, several panels are missing,” John Kennedy, a regular commuter said.