New bridge years away, old Therkuvasal bridge in Madurai crumbles

Responding to the long-standing demands, the department has initiated steps to construct a new bridge parallel to the existing one.

The side wall of the South Gate bridge lies severely damaged, with vegetation growing beneath it, leaving it in a pathetic condition. (Photo | K K Sundar)

MADURAI: With the parapet walls collapsing, steel reinforcement rods left exposed, and vegetation growing unchecked, the ageing Therkuvasal Railway Over Bridge (ROB) in Madurai has become a cause for concern for daily commuters, as plans for a new bridge remain a long-drawn process.

The Therkuvasal ROB, constructed in 1989, is 500 metres long and 7.5 metres wide. The two-lane bridge connects Therkuvasal with Villapuram and serves as a vital intra-city link. For several years, residents have been urging the State Highways Department to revamp the structure, citing safety risks and growing traffic congestion.

Responding to the long-standing demands, the department has initiated steps to construct a new bridge parallel to the existing one. However, commuters and residents have stressed that the current ROB requires immediate strengthening on a war-footing basis, as the new bridge project is expected to take at least three years to be completed.

Speaking to TNIE, T Raj, a resident of Villapuram, said that nearly 10,000 vehicles use the bridge daily. “It is a crucial link connecting the Madurai airport, Aruppukottai, and several other parts of the district,” he said.

Raj pointed out that parapet walls have collapsed at several places, leaving steel reinforcement rods exposed without concrete support. He added that frequent breakdowns of autos, cars, and heavy vehicles on the bridge often result in severe traffic congestion.

The side wall of the South Gate bridge lies severely damaged, with vegetation growing beneath it, leaving it in a pathetic condition | K K SUNDAR

Residents also flagged the unchecked growth of tree saplings on the underside of the bridge, while portions beneath have collapsed in certain stretches, posing a serious risk to commuters.

R Sankara Narayanan, Zonal Secretary of the Dakshin Railway Employees Union and a CPM member, emphasised the need for immediate interim measures. “The new bridge project will take a minimum of three years. Until then, the existing bridge must be strengthened through patchwork repairs, restoration of parapet walls, and reinforcement of the underside,” he said.

Referring to broader infrastructure constraints, Narayanan said strengthening transport facilities under the State government’s control was crucial. “Roads can be widened, and as per the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court’s order, the arch in Villapuram can be removed to ensure smoother vehicle movement,” he added.

He also appreciated the completion of the Apollo junction grade separator and the ongoing Goripalayam flyover works, noting that such projects have helped ease congestion. “Similarly, strengthening the existing Therkuvasal ROB and widening the road would significantly reduce traffic bottlenecks,” he said.

A senior official from the State Highways Department said the issue would be examined and appropriate measures would be taken to address the concerns raised by the public.