The four key roads of Madras that originate from Fort St. George
This article explores the historical development of Chennai's road network, which radiates from Fort St. George. It highlights how the city's commercial and leisure districts were shaped by the North and South Beach roads.
Why it matters
Understanding the urban planning history of Chennai provides context for the city's current infrastructure and the evolution of its commercial hubs.
How many of us realise that the focal point as far as the principal roads of our city is concerned still remains Fort Saint George? Traffic movement is by and large planned on the network created by four great roads and no matter how far away you are from the Fort, the routes you take are still dictated by it.
The road north sets out from the North Gate of the Fort was known as North Beach Road and then First Line Beach, and now as Rajaji Salai, which under other names connects to Minjur, Manali, Pulicat, and onwards to Andhra. | Photo Credit: S.S. Kumar
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