Periyar Bridge, Road bridge in Chennai, India
Periyar Bridge is a road bridge spanning the Coovum River in Chennai, connecting the southern section of the city's central area with neighboring districts. The structure carries daily traffic from thousands of commuters who rely on it as a key transportation link.
Originally built in 1805 as St. George's Bridge, it connected Fort St. George with Triplicane during colonial rule. Following independence, it was renamed to mark the nation's transformation and new direction.
The bridge bears the name of E.V. Ramasamy, a social reformer whose ideas shaped the region. The naming reflects how the city chose to honor local figures after independence through public spaces.
The bridge experiences heaviest traffic during morning and evening rush hours, making daytime crossing less ideal during peak times. Plan your crossing for off-peak hours if possible to avoid congestion on this busy route.
The original 1805 structure was substantially rebuilt in the 1920s to strengthen its foundation and accommodate growing traffic flows. This renovation was among the city's early efforts to modernize infrastructure during rapid urban growth.
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