Chaotic parking chokes major roads in Tiruchi

Haphazard parking of two-wheelers by pre-owned vehicle dealers on Pattabiraman Street has been causing inconvenience to motorists and pedestrians alike, with residents urging the authorities to step in and regulate the practice.

Several pre-owned two-wheeler showrooms and traders along the busy stretch park the vehicles on the roadside, occupying a significant portion of the carriageway. Vehicles are lined up in multiple rows, leaving little space for the smooth movement of traffic. Pedestrians are forced to walk on the road as the pavements are occupied by the vehicles.

Commuters said the situation worsens during peak hours, leading to traffic congestion and increasing the risk of accidents. “The road is already narrow and when two-wheelers are parked outside shops, it is difficult for commuter vehicles to pass. Cars and autorickshaws struggle to navigate the stretch,” said N. Jamaludeen, a civic activist.

Traffic hotspot

Similarly, Thillai Nagar has emerged as a major traffic hotspot in the city. With 11 crossroads and 27 intersections leading to commercial establishments, banks, hospitals and other outlets, the area remains abuzz with vehicular movement throughout the day. However, unauthorised parking of two-wheelers and four-wheelers has been hampering the free flow of traffic, much to the distress of commuters.

Road users said vehicles are parked indiscriminately at almost every crossroad, narrowing the carriageway and leading to frequent bottlenecks. Several four-wheelers are seen lined up at junctions, making it difficult for motorists to negotiate turns, particularly during peak hours.

Given the presence of hospitals and commercial establishments, parking has emerged as a persistent issue in the locality. Visitors often leave their vehicles on the roadside due to a lack of designated parking facilities, further aggravating congestion.

During the recent Council meeting, councillors urged the Tiruchi Corporation to remove encroachments on Pattabiraman Street and regulate parking to streamline vehicular movement. They suggested that the civic body identify and allocate dedicated parking spaces to ease congestion in the area.