The Mandaveli bus depot in Chennai is currently grappling with significant operational challenges, including narrow access roads, a notable absence of basic amenities, and frustrating bus delays, all contributing to considerable commuter inconvenience. However, a major ₹151 crore facelift project is on the horizon, promising to transform the facility into a state-of-the-art multi-modal transit hub. This comprehensive modernisation, led by Chennai Metro Asset Management Ltd (CMAML), a joint venture between Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) and TIDCO, aims to address current shortcomings and enhance sustainable urban mobility in the city.
Current conditions at the depot present a challenging environment for daily commuters. Narrow lanes, exacerbated by ongoing metro construction, create hazardous bottlenecks for both vehicles and pedestrians. A particularly concerning area near the Jeth Nagar entrance, in close proximity to a retail alcohol outlet and metro work, has been flagged for safety concerns due to pedestrian discomfort and frequent accidents. These immediate issues highlight the critical need for integrated urban planning that prioritises safety and accessibility, fostering more gender-neutral and secure public spaces.
The current operational difficulties stem largely from the ongoing metro construction, which commenced almost two years ago, leading to the temporary transfer of depot management to CMRL. This has resulted in a constrained and often dangerous environment, with limited space for movement. Commuters report extended waiting times for several bus routes, with frequencies decreasing significantly, impacting daily schedules for students and workers alike. These disruptions, while temporary, underscore the broader impact of large-scale infrastructure projects on daily urban life and the need for efficient transitional arrangements.
Beyond the immediate challenges, the depot currently lacks fundamental public facilities. There is no readily available drinking water, and public toilets are absent, with a dedicated breastfeeding room remaining locked and unused. Security is also a concern, as the depot itself lacks CCTV surveillance, relying on a single camera from an adjacent building. Such deficiencies directly impact the user experience, particularly for vulnerable groups, and run counter to the vision of equitable and accessible urban infrastructure.
The impending ₹151 crore redevelopment project, however, promises a dramatic overhaul. Envisioned as a modern, multimodal transit hub, the plan includes integrating metro access directly into the bus terminal, optimising land use efficiency. The revamped depot will feature dedicated pick-up and drop-off bays for buses, dual road access, and will house two multi-storeyed towers, providing commercial and retail spaces. Crucially, the design incorporates features such as solar panels on terraces, aligning with green building standards and contributing to Chennai’s zero net carbon objectives.
Officials anticipate that many of the current issues are temporary, with a particular narrow lane expected to be removed in the coming months as metro construction progresses. The long-term vision for the Mandaveli depot is to serve as a beacon of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), seamlessly merging public transport services with commercial and retail functionality. This holistic approach is crucial for creating more liveable, sustainable cities where daily commutes are efficient, environmentally friendly, and contribute positively to local economic activity and social well-being.
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