The project, which commenced in 2025 on both stretches has already been causing difficulties to the motorists due to multiple diversions, particularly during the peak hours in areas like Madaththur, Murappanadu, Vasavappapuram and others. Adding to the inconvenience, the airborne dust generated by the construction work has severely affected the motorists, traders and residents in the areas.
A. Varadharajan, a resident of Ayanvadamalapuram said, “As part of the work, a temporary lane has been created in the middle of the highway for the construction of structures. The gravel and other dry-blended construction materials have been dumped on the lane at some points, which generates dust pollution, thereby posing difficulties for residents and motorists.”
He added that the Thoothukudi-Madurai highway has a large number of agricultural lands on both sides, where farming activities are expected to commence within a few weeks for the rabi season.
Mr. Varadharajan noted, “This dust pollution is likely to have an impact on agricultural lands and crops during the farming season and necessary action must be taken to prevent further pollution.”
As the district frequently experiences strong winds, the dust generated at the construction sites has made travelling difficult for motorists. At times, the dust clouds obscure visibility for vehicles travelling, further increasing the risk of accidents.
Speaking on this, Krishnendra Dwivedi, project Director, NHAI said, “The pond-ash is a light weight material and tends to become air-borne when it is dry. However, we are sprinkling water multiple times a day to prevent dust pollution in the area.”
He added that the NHAI had also stopped stocking large quantities of pond-ash at the construction sites and was sourcing only the quantity required for each day. “We are also trying to lay earthen materials beneath the pond-ash to prevent further dust pollution,” he said.