5-Foot Sinkhole Disrupts Mylapore Traffic Amid Ongoing Metro Construction

A significant 5-foot-deep sinkhole emerged on RK Mutt Road in Mylapore, Chennai, causing substantial traffic disruptions and raising questions about the area's infrastructure stability.

The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon, leading to immediate road closures and diversions. A viral video captured a woman traffic police officer narrowly escaping as the road gave way beneath her. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Metrowater officials attributed the collapse to an aging underground sewer line, approximately 25 years old, which had weakened over time due to corrosion. This deterioration led to soil displacement and the eventual cave-in. The affected section was about one meter deep and three meters in diameter. Repair work commenced promptly, with expectations to complete the restoration within a week.

This incident is not isolated. In October 2024, a seven-foot-deep sinkhole appeared on Radhakrishnan Salai near Mylapore following heavy rains. The collapse was linked to damage in the underlying stormwater drains, exacerbated by recent metro construction activities. Similarly, in May 2025, a sinkhole on the road connecting Thiruvanmiyur and Taramani swallowed a car, with preliminary investigations pointing to a leak in a 2.2-meter diameter sewer line beneath the road.

The ongoing Chennai Metro Rail project, particularly the construction of the Thirumayilai metro station, has been a focal point of concern. This station, set to be the deepest in Chennai at 35 meters below ground, involves complex engineering challenges. The construction has led to traffic diversions and increased congestion in areas like North Mada Street, which has become heavily occupied by parked vehicles, further complicating the daily commute for residents and visitors.

Residents have expressed growing apprehension over the frequency of such incidents and the potential risks posed by aging infrastructure combined with extensive construction activities. Local authorities are urged to prioritize comprehensive inspections and timely maintenance to prevent future occurrences and ensure public safety.

As the city continues to expand its metro network to improve connectivity, balancing development with infrastructure integrity remains a critical challenge for Chennai's urban planners.