With construction works nearing completion, the long-awaited Road Over Bridge (ROB) at Akkaraipettai in Nagapattinam is expected to be opened for public use soon, bringing relief to motorists and fishermen who have for years faced delays at the railway level-crossing near Nagapattinam railway station.

The 1.31-km-long bridge, being constructed at an estimated cost of around ₹104.73 crore, is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity between Nagapattinam town and coastal fishing villages such as Akkaraipettai and Keechankuppam.

The project, sanctioned in 2018 initially progressed at a slow pace owing to delays in railway clearances and technical issues. Officials said the work gained momentum after it was resumed in 2022 by the State Highways Department under the Thanjavur division.

Sources said nearly 90% of the construction work had been completed. However, drainage works, approach roads, bypass connectivity and certain utility-related works involving the Electricity Board and municipal administration were still pending. Officials indicated that the remaining works were expected to be completed by August this year.

The ROB is being constructed near the busy level-crossing located a few hundred metres from the entrance of Nagapattinam railway station, where long traffic snarls are a regular occurrence. Ambulances, school vehicles, fish-laden trucks and daily commuters are often stranded for several minutes whenever the railway gate is closed.

Fishermen and residents said the bridge would improve transportation of fish from the harbour, strengthen trade and support passenger movement to nearby religious and commercial centres, including Velankanni and Nagore.

“We urge the government to expedite the completion of the overbridge and ensure adequate transport infrastructure to support fishing, harbour trade, passenger ferry services, pilgrimages and the needs of students, workers and the general public,” said R.M.P. Rajendira Nattar, president of the Indian National Fishermen Union.

In a representation submitted to Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, Mr. Rajendira Nattar requested that the Chief Minister inaugurate the bridge after completion and dedicate it to the public.

Officials said the bridge, once operational, was expected to improve traffic flow and provide seamless access to coastal habitations, besides contributing to the local economy through faster transportation and trade activities.