Vellore Corporation demolishes encroachments on Arcot Road near CMC

Encroachments, mostly commercial buildings, were demolished on the congested Arcot Road near the Christian Medical College (CMC) Hospital in Vellore on Tuesday.

Officials of the Vellore Corporation executed the demolition drive and said that the demolition was undertaken as part of a plan to restore the original width of the stretch, and for easy movement of vehicles, especially ambulances.

As part of the drive, 60 structures, mostly shops, were demolished. Demolition of these structures will provide additional road space of between 15 and 40 feet on the stretch. Thereafter, the road will be re-laid to allow motorists to use the space.

“The demolition drive was aimed at ensuring the safety of road users, as thousands of persons, especially from other States, visit the hospitals on the stretch every day. The drive will be a continuous process,” A. Sultana, Commissioner, Vellore Corporation, told The Hindu.

Corporation officials said the 5.2 km-long stretch between Konavattam, and the service lane of Chennai – Bengaluru Highway (NH 44) near the Collectorate at Kagithapattarai, had several encroachments upon it, including temporary structures.

The drive on Tuesday was to demolish temporary structures and extension of existing shops especially near the CMC. “Efforts should be taken to create separate space for those who walk on the stretch. Pedestrian crossings and traffic signals should be installed to regulate traffic on the route,” said R. Vasanthi, a motorist.

Civic officials were directed to undertake the demolition drive on the stretch, based on the orders of Collector P.S. Leela Alex, as the road is a key government bus route between Bagayam and Katpadi railway station. 

Along with revenue and Vellore Corporation officials, around 80 police personnel were also involved to ensure smooth flow of traffic on the route and to prevent any untoward incidents.