In a recent development, the transport department in Chennai has initiated the reallocation of Metropolitan Transport Corporation’s (MTC) small buses from the city to various other districts in Tamil Nadu, including Karur and Villupuram.
This decision, aimed at optimizing resources, has sparked concerns among commuters in Chennai, particularly impacting first and last-mile connectivity options. Initially, these small buses were in high demand in Chennai, providing an affordable transportation solution for commuters. However, the current fleet comprises only 140 out of the original 200 small buses, indicating a notable reduction in availability. The exact number of buses transferred to other districts has not been officially disclosed, but photographic evidence suggests relocation to entities such as the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) in Kumbakonam and Villupuram.
The reallocation has left Chennai facing a shortage of small buses, consequently leading to a surge in fares for alternative modes of transportation such as autorickshaws, share autos, and bike-taxis. Despite this, the state government has yet to implement measures to regulate autorickshaw fares or establish operational guidelines for bike-taxis. Acknowledging the necessity for feeder services in Chennai, transport department officials have expressed plans to enhance existing services. MTC officials have assured the continuation of operating 90% of the available small buses on a daily basis. Transportation experts have weighed in on the situation, highlighting MTC’s previous cessation of small bus operations due to poor patronage and high operational costs. However, recent collaborations with entities like the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) have resulted in increased patronage during peak hours and sustained usage throughout the day. Experts argue that denying small buses to Chennai commuters is unjustifiable, particularly considering the current demand.
Critics of the reallocation strategy, such as transportation expert Kamal, advocate for the procurement of new small buses instead of redistributing existing ones to other districts. This perspective underscores the importance of addressing Chennai’s transit needs independently, ensuring adequate transportation solutions for its residents. The reallocation of small buses in Chennai has raised pertinent concerns regarding transit disruption and fare surges. As the city grapples with transportation challenges, stakeholders urge a strategic approach to balance resource optimization with commuter convenience.
