Cumta to Prepare DPR for Transforming OMR and Radial Road into Mobility Corridors

The Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (Cumta) has decided to prepare a detailed project report to transform the Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR) and the Pallavaram-Thoraipakkam Radial Road into model urban mobility corridors. The initiative will cover a 25-kilometre stretch of OMR extending from Madhya Kailash to Kelambakkam, alongside a 7.4-kilometre section of the Pallavaram-Thoraipakkam Road running from the Pallavaram Bridge to the Thoraipakkam junction.

According to the project proposal, the primary objective is to enhance last-mile connectivity and create multi-modal integration across the area. The corridors will be developed to connect seamlessly with public transit hubs, including railway stations, Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) stations, Metro stations, bus terminals, and bus stands.

In addition to transit links, the project will upgrade public spaces throughout the route. Areas beneath flyovers, grade separators, spaces above subways, and roads integrated with parks are scheduled for improvements, while the road networks surrounding key public transportation hubs will be upgraded.

As outlined in a Cumta document, the detailed project report (DPR) will focus on reducing or maintaining the status quo of annual per capita greenhouse gas emissions. The plan aims to lower emissions by promoting low-carbon transit options such as walking and cycling, de-incentivising the use of private vehicles, and mitigating traffic jams and vehicle idling times at intersections.

The broader vision for the corridors emphasizes a seamless traffic flow with explicit priority given to non-motorised transportation (NMT) and public transit. The framework also encompasses targeted decongestion measures, comprehensive road safety features, and urban development planned alongside the road network.

Planned infrastructure changes include strengthening and widening existing roads to maintain a uniform carriageway featuring a green median and dedicated service lanes. The work will further involve the rehabilitation and widening of existing culverts and bridges, installation of grade separators, improved pedestrian facilities, safe intersections, designated bus bays, and designated parking bays.