Change in MTC routes, schedule irks commuters

Sources added that the move might even be in violation of the norm that such changes should be implemented only with approval of State Transport Authority.

In the latest instance, the transport utility had changed the routes of two buses that operated from the Iyappanthangal depot – 11H that plied from Iyappanthangal to Broadway terminus was diverted to CMBT, while 37G was extended to Poonamallee.

Explaining another instance, K Anbazhagan, a resident of Porur, said waited for a long time to catch the bus to Tambaram (route 166). “It used to be operated approximately once in 20 minutes. But there were none in sight for a long time. When enquired, the depot staff said there were five on the route but operated at different timings.”

Also, important routes, including 119 (T Nagar-Semmencherry) operated via Velachery were reportedly reduced to increase the service along alternate routes – via Adyar or Madhya Kailash. Sources added that least 50 per cent of Kelambakkam bus services were curtailed at Siruseri to increasethe revenue.

Apart from the inconvenience caused to the regular passengers, these changes could also be in violation of State Transport Authority (STA) norms, said anofficial source.

“The MTC has to send the changes in route or timings to the STA. The Corporation can implement these changes only after getting approval. Otherwise, it would be considered as a violation which can attract suspension or cancellation of permits. Sometimes, the department also denies renewal of licenses,” a top STA official said.

When enquired if the MTC had obtained approval from the STA, the official said there was only a remote chance for that, but added that the mismatch can be found only after tallying with the vehicle’s permit.

However, when asked, MTC managing director Anbu Abraham said STA approval is necessary only in cases that involve complete change of bus routes or overhaul of the timetable. “According to the norms, the decisions over the small matters like change of timings or routes for shorter distances can be carried out by the head of the Corporation,” he said.