Tamil Nadu Plans High-Level Bridges to Replace Causeways, Mitigate Flooding

According to the Highways and Minor Ports Department Policy Note 2024-2025, Tamil Nadu is set to replace causeways with high-level bridges (HLBs) to prevent flooding issues. During monsoons, the accumulation of rainwater over causeways often obstructs traffic flow across channels and rivers, adversely affecting local livelihoods.

In response to these challenges, the Chief Minister’s All Season Uninterrupted Connectivity Scheme, announced during the Budget session 2021-22, aims to convert existing causeways into HLBs by 2026. In the fiscal year 2023-24 alone, 272 causeways have been slated for conversion, with ₹758.82 crore allocated for the project. Progress has been notable, with 169 of these conversions already completed.

Over the past three financial years, a total of 1113 causeways have been identified for conversion, with 795 already transformed into HLBs. This initiative aims not only to enhance connectivity but also to mitigate the adverse impacts of seasonal flooding on local communities.

HBL