Uneven roads after utility works raise safety concerns in Coimbatore

Motorists have raised concerns over uneven roads on several stretches in Coimbatore where patchwork had been carried out after laying drinking water pipelines, underground drainage (UGD) lines and other utilities.

Commuters pointed to stretches on Dr. Krishnasamy Mudaliar Road, Old Post Office Road, Kuniyamuthur Road and Mettupalayam Road, where restoration works carried out after utility-related excavation left portions of the carriageway with noticeable bumps and uneven patches.

Road users said the restored sections were often not level with the existing road surface, resulting in vehicles experiencing sudden jolts while passing over them. They added that the problem was particularly pronounced on stretches where roads had been cut open for the laying and maintenance of drinking water pipelines, UGD lines and other underground utilities.

K. Priya Dharshini, who travels daily along Mettupalayam Road, said the stretch between Chinnathamani Junction and Saibaba Colony has several restored patches. “Many of these sections have developed prominent bumps. Vehicles experience repeated jolts, making commuting uncomfortable, especially for two-wheeler riders,” she said.

R. Kannan, a resident of R.S. Puram, said motorists were often forced to slow down abruptly while negotiating the uneven stretches. “The difference in road level may appear minor, but it can affect the balance of two-wheeler riders. Such stretches become difficult to negotiate during the night or when traffic is heavy,” he said.

Commuters said the uneven surfaces affected riding comfort and posed a road safety concern, particularly for two-wheeler riders.

They urged the Coimbatore Corporation and utility agencies to ensure that roads excavated for drinking water, UGD and other infrastructure works are restored to the same level as the existing carriageway.

A senior Coimbatore Corporation official said road restoration works are generally carried out to match the level of the existing carriageway after the completion of utility works. “The restored portions are expected to be level with the road surface. However, in some places, the quality of restoration carried out by contractors may result in bumps or uneven patches. We will inspect the affected stretches and issue necessary instructions to ensure that the road surface is properly restored,” the official said.