Chennai Mourns as Metro Pillar Collapse Claims One Life in Ramapuram
Chennai, June 12, 2025 —
A deadly construction accident struck Chennai’s Ramapuram area just past midnight, shaking the city’s residents and raising serious questions about infrastructure safety. Two massive pillars under construction for Chennai Metro Phase 2 came crashing down onto Mount-Poonamallee Road, leading to the death of one individual on the spot.
The incident occurred around 12:15 AM, when traffic was relatively low. However, the impact was catastrophic. Emergency teams and local police rushed to the scene and cordoned off the area, which continues to witness traffic congestion and tension as officials begin a full investigation.
The identity of the deceased has not yet been officially released, but authorities confirmed that the victim was a passerby caught under the falling structure. Eyewitnesses described a thunderous crash followed by chaos, with locals and commuters rushing to help before officials arrived.
“There was a loud boom — everything shook. We didn’t realize it was a pillar collapse until we saw the debris blocking the road,” said one local shopkeeper.
Officials from Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) have expressed condolences and stated that a technical and safety audit is already underway. Senior engineers and a team from the Tamil Nadu Disaster Response Force are also inspecting the site for structural risks and potential negligence.
As Mount-Poonamallee Road remains partially closed, commuters are advised to take alternate routes. Public anger is rising, especially from nearby residents, over safety lapses and late-night construction activity.
June 12, 2025, will be remembered as a dark day in Chennai’s metro development history. The city now waits for accountability — and assurances that such tragedies will never happen again.
