Coimbatore: Chief minister M K Stalin inaugurated phase-I of Western Ring Road via videoconference on Friday.The newly opened 11.8km four-lane stretch runs from Mayilkal near Madukkarai to Madampatti Junction. The completed section of the proposed 32.43km-long ring road features a flyover each at Madukkarai and Madampatti, two vehicle underpasses and 13 minor bridges. A highways department official said the stretch would benefit the commuters travelling from the city towards Siruvani Road, as well as long-distance travellers from other districts and states. At present, many visitors heading to Kovai Kutralam, Karunya and Isha Yoga Centre at Poondi reach Siruvani Road through Kovaipudur, Sundakkamuthur or via Athupalam, Ukkadam and Perur. The journey often takes more than 45 minutes. Once the bypass becomes fully operational, commuters are expected to cover the 11km stretch in about 15 minutes. The road is also expected to ease congestion in the city and improve traffic flow by providing a more convenient route for vehicles. “We have installed speed breakers and a roundabout at the intersection near Arivoli Nagar and are planning to install blinkers and CCTV cameras to prevent accidents on the stretch,” the official said. K Prakash, a resident of Arivoli Nagar, said authorities should take steps to prevent accidents on the stretch, as there were several intersections along the road. “Many college students and the public use the road and they have to cross it during peak hours, increasing the risk of accidents. A college student died in an accident near Arivoli Nagar a month ago. Authorities should take necessary safety measures.”
