Array of problems besiege new bus terminus at Madhavaram

The recently inaugurated Madhavaram bus terminus has a range of problems from waterlogging to lack of refreshment stalls on its premises. The terminus was opened for public use only two months ago.

The swanky terminus was built on an area of eight acres at the cost of 94.16 crore. The new terminus is much sought after as it made the journey to Tirupati and its beyond easier.

The facility, on an average, receives a footfall of 1,000 passengers every day and it increases during festival season. But, still, the authorities are yet to set up a refreshment stall for the benefit of commuters.

“The Madavaram Moffussil terminus does not have a canteen. At least, they can set up a kiosk to sell Amma water. Or, they can set up a tea stall or an Aavin parlour to benefit the masses,” Arvind Babu R, a resident of Madhavaram, said

In addition, the facility is not equipped with a waiting hall. “The inflow of passengers during festival season is much higher. Majority of travelers comes early to the terminus to avoid missing the bus. They are forced to stand for long hours. Authorities should set up facilities similar to Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus (CMBT) and Chennai Central,” another commuter said.

The other major issue plaguing the terminus is that buses going towards the terminus have to pass through the truck yard, creating a congestion. Commuters have been demanding to shift the truck yard located on the campus to Red Hills, Karanodai or Minjur Highway to mitigate the situation.

“This will pave the way to accommodate more number of buses. Importantly, it will ensure a free flow of traffic, facilitating quick entry of buses bound to Bangalore Highway. This might even ease the congestion at CMBT,” Arvind added.

Though the terminus is equipped with elevators, ATM counters and ticket counters, the absence of an information desk to aid the passengers is a major concern in regard to this facility. The facility reels under water stagnation after a spell of rain.

“A few buses are still being operated from Koyambedu and people are caught unaware even during this concluded Pongal season,” said anothercommuter.

“This terminus is not known for its safety for women, especially after nightfall. The proximity of the truck yard heightens the concern over women passengers,” a woman commuter said.

Officials maintain that the terminus has provisions to accommodate eight shops, a restaurant, an infant-feeding room, a waiting hall, restroom for crew, health clinic, pharmacy and a dormitory. “Soon a tender will be floated to install these facilities,” said an official attached to the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA).