Rising bitumen prices have delayed completion of an elevated bridge on the Chennai-Bengaluru Highway near Ranipet. Motorists must continue using a narrow service lane.
The National Highways Authority of India has postponed black-topping work on the new elevated bridge at Melvisharam near Arcot because of higher tar costs linked to conflict in the Middle East. The ₹22 crore project remains incomplete on one carriageway. Commuters face daily difficulties on the 30-foot-wide service lane, which has potholes and poor lighting. Ambulances and buses often get stuck during peak hours, while residents cross the stretch with cattle in the evenings. Ranipet Collector N. Priya directed police to ask NHAI to open the bridge early for safety. Officials said they are waiting for prices to stabilize before finishing the retaining wall, final bitumen layer and streetlights.