Date:17/12/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/12/17/stories/2006121715210300.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Youth killed by speeding lorry

Staff Reporter

Area near level crossing risk-prone "Traffic policemen on duty at the intersection inadequate"

TAMBARAM: A 23-year-old youth two-wheeler rider died after a collision with a speeding lorry on the Grand Southern Trunk Road at Tambaram on Friday morning.

The police identified the victim as K.Shanmugham, a native of Manamadurai. He was staying in Tambaram and was working as a salesman of milk sachets.

Shanmugham was passing through the limited use subway near the level crossing, when the accident took place. He was rushed to a hospital, where he died.

The area near the level crossing, at the intersection of GST, Mudichur and Velachery Main Roads, has always been a risk-prone spot, say locals. Though traffic policemen are on duty at the intersection, the strength is inadequate to control the volume of traffic throughout the day. Vehicles reach GST Road from East Tambaram after passing through the level crossing and also from Irumbuliyur through the limited use subway. When the gates are opened, there is a sudden rush of vehicles.

The parked heavy vehicles on GST Road at times pose problems to other road users. Rash driving by tipper lorries remains unchecked.