The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) commenced construction of two Foot Over Bridges (FOB) at identified ‘black spots’, which are referred to as accident prone spots, on the Chennai - Bengaluru Highway (NH 48), at Ocheri and Damal villages along Ranipet - Kancheepuram border to prevent accidents.

NHAI officials said that the new bridges on the stretch were necessitated especially after growth of habitations and commercial establishments on both sides of the carriageway. The work on the new bridges will be completed in two months.

Many farmers have their agricultural lands on one side of the stretch and their houses on the other side. “The new bridge will be a major relief for residents. The new facility should have escalators as senior citizens will find it difficult to climb the steep staircases of the bridge,” said V. Devika, a resident.

NHAI officials said that these two villages, Ocheri and Damal, are identified as ’black spots’ due to frequent accidents, including fatal ones. As per records, these witnesses on an average, five to eight accidents every month. It also involves a de-tour of two km to reach the other side of the stretch. As a result, many pedestrians sneak through the steel median on the stretch.

As per plan, the new bridge will have around 20 staircases on each side along the service lane of the stretch. Each facility, on an average, will cost ₹ 1.8 crore. Shelters will be provided on the bridge with lights and CCTV cameras.

Both sides of the bridge will be fenced to prevent any accidents. Ramps will be provided for persons with disabilities. Lifts will also be available.

NHAI officials said that the new bridges will ensure safe crossing on the stretch by pedestrians without affecting the existing traffic flow on the route. As per norm, each vehicular underpass or a FOB, on an average, on the highway should be built at a distance of 1.5 kms to help safe crossing.

Such facilities can come up at key intersections on the highway. Currently, the stretch between Krishnagiri and Walajapet (Ranipet district), a distance of 148 km, has more than 20 such underpasses.