Chennai roads turning pedestrian-friendly

Delhi-based Centre for Science and Environment has praised the initiative of the Chennai Corporation of widening of footpaths, make them pedestrian friendly and regulate traffic on the city roads. The Corporation is widening the footpaths from 1.5 metre to 3 metre by reclaiming space. At an estimated cost of Rs 42.5 crore, the Corporation of Chennai has taken up works on 71 major roads that extend up to a length of 48.60 kilometre. The road works have been taken up by the Corporation under the grants obtained from Tamil Nadu Road Infrastructure Fund (TURIF), the Corporation of Chennai said. On the city roads, the existing five feet footpath will be converted to 10 feet footpath and facilities like ‘street furniture’ and toilets will be provided. “The work is in its advanced stage, the Corporation said.