The much-awaited ECR–OMR link road, also commonly referred to as the OMR–ECR link road, is finally taking shape after years of being stalled. This 1.4-kilometre connector between East Coast Road (ECR) and Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR) is now back in momentum, with tenders floated and clearance hurdles overcome. The project is expected to offer significant advantages to commuters and property buyers, particularly those considering homes in the OMR region.
A few years ago, proposals were floated for an expansive link between Thiruvanmiyur (ECR side) and Thoraipakkam (OMR side), aiming to cut travel time from over an hour to just 15 minutes. The proposed 10-km bridge over the Adyar River was envisioned to revolutionize connectivity in Chennai’s southern corridor.
However, due to cost and feasibility constraints, the plan was scaled down to a more practical 1.4-km connection — but one that still carries significant impact.
The ₹204-crore project is now divided into three parts:
670-metre stretch from OMR at Thoraipakkam (starting opposite BSR Mall) – This portion is already complete.
50-metre bridge over the Buckingham Canal – Clearance has been granted, and a ₹35 crore tender has been floated. The bridge is designed with a 4-metre height above flood level and is expected to be completed by March 2026.
A 680-metre stretch near Neelankarai on the ECR side – Land acquisition involving 90 private plots (including 58 multi-storey buildings) is in its final stages. A separate tender has been issued to convert this into a three-lane road, including 10 intersections, 2 bus stops, and a T-junction at the ECR merge point.
Once completed, the ECR–OMR link road will:
Cut travel time between OMR and ECR to under 10 minutes — a huge relief from the current 10-km detours.
Improve airport access from ECR to Chennai International Airport via the 200-Feet Thoraipakkam–Pallavaram Radial Road — bringing travel time under 40 minutes.
Ease congestion at Sholinganallur and Thiruvanmiyur junctions by offering an alternative corridor.
This new connectivity is especially beneficial for those who live in or are planning to buy a home in OMR. With easier access to the ECR side, faster airport commutes, and reduced daily travel fatigue, life in OMR gets a definite upgrade.
For home buyers evaluating options in Chennai, the ECR–OMR link road improves the livability index of OMR — a region already buzzing with IT parks, schools, hospitals, and new residential projects. For property investors, the enhanced connectivity can drive better demand and appreciation over time.
In addition there are other development projects initiated by the Government which encourage people to buy apartments in Chennai in the fast developing OMR region.
1.Global sports city semmancheri
Sports lovers are particularly interested in residential projects near Chennai sports city.
Nature lovers are eager to settle closer to this scenic location and invest in OMR Villas.
Rotary flyover at Thoraipakkam Junction is proposed to streamline traffic flow.
A 2.1-km elevated road to connect Thoraipakkam junction with Kamatchi Hospital junction in Pallikaranai is also on the cards.
The ECR–OMR link road isn’t just about connecting two major roads — it’s about making everyday life smoother for thousands of people and giving OMR residents and home buyers a long-overdue advantage. With the project back on track, this corridor of Chennai is one to watch closely in the months to come.
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