Chennai transit upgrade stalled: Royapuram bus terminus built but remains non-operational

The Royapuram bus terminus, designed to handle buses heading to north Chennai, remains non-operational months after its completion, leaving the infrastructure idle despite being ready to serve commuters.

The facility was built to accommodate 55 buses, aiming to streamline traffic flow and improve commuter convenience in north Chennai, but it has yet to serve its intended purpose.

Instead of buses, the terminus has become a makeshift parking area, mostly for two-wheelers, highlighting underutilization of a major public transport project.

Private vehicles, trucks, and even private buses have started using the terminus at night, taking over the space meant for public transport operations.

Despite significant investment and construction, the Royapuram terminus remains idle, raising questions about planning, execution, and efficient use of public funds.

With the terminus unused, daily commuters heading to north Chennai continue to face congestion, delays, and overcrowding at existing bus stops and roads.

The delay in operationalizing the terminus has prevented the city from easing traffic congestion along routes served by northbound buses.

With no active use, the facility is vulnerable to damage and misuse, including encroachment by unauthorized vehicles, potentially increasing future maintenance costs.