Minister for Public Works, Highways and Minor Ports E.V. Velu today inaugurated two newly constructed high-level bridges under the NABARD project in Tiruvannamalai district at a total cost of Rs 12.87 crore, declaring them open for public use.
A 60-metre-long, 7.5-metre-wide two-lane bridge on the Veraiyur–Thandarai road was built at a cost of Rs 6.17 crore. This project will benefit nearly 1.5 lakh residents of Veraiyur, Thandarai, Andampallam, Thalavaikulam, Sanipoondi, Vaipur, Madhurambattu, Anandal, and Andiyapalayam villages.
Another high-level bridge linking Diwalasai and Su.Valavetti villages, constructed at a cost of Rs 6.70 crore, was also inaugurated. It is expected to serve another 1.5 lakh people in the surrounding areas.
The event was attended by Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Ku. Pichandi, District Collector Kathirpapparaj, MP C.N. Annadurai, Chengam MLA M.P. Giri, and senior officials including Highways Chief Engineer (NABARD and Rural Roads) Senthil and Supervising Engineer Paranthaman.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Velu said that on the instructions of Hon’ble Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, works are being carried out across the state to convert rural overpasses into high-level bridges. “In the last four years, 1,191 out of 1,281 overpasses have been upgraded, and the remaining will be completed within this year,” he stated.
He further highlighted that 145 km of roads have been renovated in Tiruvannamalai district at a cost of Rs 113 crore, while rural roads were upgraded for Rs 41 crore. In addition, 3 overpasses were converted into high-level bridges at a cost of Rs 19 crore, and 4 new bridges have been built at a cost of Rs 6 crore.
“The Rural Bridge Revolution initiated by Chief Minister Stalin has ensured easy access to essential services like healthcare and education for villagers. This historic achievement was made possible due to the coordinated efforts of Highway Department officials. I am proud to declare this milestone and urge people to continue supporting the Chief Minister’s good governance,” the Minister added.
