Archive · 29 May 2025
Chennai's Speedbreakers: Safety Concerns and Non-Compliance Issues
Imagine speed bumps on roads designed to slow down cars.
In Chennai, many of these speed bumps aren't built correctly.
They are too high or don't have the right markings, making them dangerous.
People with disabilities, pregnant women, and cyclists are getting hurt.
Some bumps fade quickly, leading to accidents at night.
While the city is trying to fix the issues, many speed bumps still need to be improved.
The government is working to make sure the speed bumps meet safety rules so everyone can travel safely.
Many Chennai speedbreakers violate Indian Road Congress (IRC) design standards, causing issues for residents.
Non-compliant speedbreakers are causing physical pain, injuries and accidents, particularly for vulnerable road users.
An audit found a significant number of speedbreakers across the city do not adhere to IRC regulations.
The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) identified nearly 2,000 non-conforming speedbreakers for correction.
Corrective actions were taken in some zones, but further drives are needed to address ongoing issues.
- Who
- Chennai residents, civic activists, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC), and the Indian Road Congress (IRC).
- What
- Many speedbreakers in Chennai do not meet safety standards, causing accidents and discomfort for road users.
- When
- Ongoing issues; Corrective actions taken before 2024 heavy rains and published on May 29, 2025
- Where
- Chennai, specifically in areas like Tiruvottiyur, Anna Main Road, Gandhi Nagar, and Kannadasan Nagar.
- Why
- Speedbreakers are non-compliant with Indian Road Congress standards, leading to accidents and injuries.
Resident/Activist Concerns
GCC Response
Speedbreaker Compliance
Resident/Activist Concerns
Civic activists and residents complain about speedbreakers violating IRC norms.
GCC Response
GCC identified nearly 2,000 non-conforming speedbreakers and initiated corrections.
Speedbreaker Maintenance
Resident/Activist Concerns
Residents report fading paint and lack of reflective markings leading to accidents.
GCC Response
GCC stated corrective actions were taken before the 2024 heavy rains.
- IRC Speedbreaker Standard
- 3.7 meters wide, 10 cm high, 17-meter radius
- Design Speed
- 25 km/h
- Non-Compliant Speedbreakers
- 201 of 467 spots surveyed do not meet IRC regulations
- GCC Identification
- Nearly 2,000 speedbreakers identified as non-conforming
- Publication Date
- May 29, 2025