The iconic Broadway bus terminus in Chennai is set for a major facelift. To facilitate this redevelopment, the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) has announced a significant operational shift. Starting January 7, bus services will temporarily operate from two alternative locations: the Royapuram Bus Terminus and the Island Grounds. This move is essential to allow for the planned upgrade of the Broadway facility, a key transit hub in the city.
Royapuram Temporary Terminus: Key Routes and Stops
According to an official press release, a substantial number of bus routes will be relocated to the temporary terminus at Royapuram. This includes all buses that currently ply via Kamarajar Salai and Anna Salai. Passengers relying on popular routes such as 6, 13, 21G, 21L, 60E, 102, 109, and 109A will now need to board or alight at Royapuram.
Furthermore, several other Anna Salai routes, including 11, 21, 26, 52, and 54, will also be managed from this temporary base. For added convenience, buses heading towards Royapuram from Anna Salai and EVR Salai will make an intermediate stop. They will halt at North Fort Road near the Harbour MLA office for passenger boarding and alighting before proceeding to the temporary terminus.
Island Grounds to Host Another Set of Services
The second temporary hub will be established at the Island Grounds. This location will cater to buses that operate via Beach Station, Mannadi, EVR Salai, and Vepery. Commuters using crucial routes like 1, 4, 15, 20, 33B, 35, 42, 56C, and 120 must now plan their journeys to and from Island Grounds.
Detailed Route Diversions for Commuters
The MTC has provided specific diversion details to ensure minimal disruption. Buses that typically use Kamarajar Salai will follow a revised path. Their route will now pass through Paris Corner, NSC Bose Road, and Esplanade Road to reach their new temporary terminals. This detailed planning aims to maintain connectivity while the redevelopment work is underway.
The temporary arrangement underscores MTC's effort to keep the city's public transport running smoothly during essential infrastructure upgrades. Daily commuters are advised to note the new boarding points and plan their travel accordingly from the start date of January 7.
