NHAI to build foot overbridge at Poigai village

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has decided to build a ₹1.8-crore foot overbridge (FOB) on the Chennai-Bengaluru Highway (NH 48) at Poigai village here to prevent accidents, mainly involving pedestrians.

NHAI officials said Poigai village was among the five accident-prone spots identified on the busy stretch. Steel bridges would be built to ensure the safety of pedestrians while crossing the stretch, they said.

“The bridge will help dairy farmers reach the veterinary hospitals located on the stretch safely. Additional safety measures such as reflectors, blinkers, and speed limit signage should be installed,” G. Ramesh, a motorist, said.

Vellore Corporation officials said Poigai had a government veterinary hospital, a clinic, and a government industrial training institute. It is also known for hosting weekly cattle markets.

NHAI officials said that as per plan, the new bridge would have around 20 staircases on either side of the service lane, and shelters would be provided with lights and CCTV cameras.

Both sides of the bridge will be fenced to prevent any accidental fall. Ramps for persons with disabilities and lifts will be installed.

Pedestrians currently cross the stretch through gaps in the median near bus stops.

As per the norms, each vehicular underpass or foot overbridge on the highway should be built every 1.5 km to facilitate safe crossings. Such facilities can also be constructed at key intersections and crowded spots such as food joints along the highway.