Chennai Mall Traffic Crisis: Study Reveals Over-Reliance on Personal Vehicles
A recent study by Anna University researchers has highlighted a growing traffic crisis in Chennai, driven by mall visitors' heavy reliance on personal vehicles instead of public transport. The 2024 survey, based on responses from 5,091 mall visitors, found that only one-third use public options like buses, suburban trains, or metro rail.
Dominance of Personal Vehicles and Parking Issues
The survey revealed that personal vehicles are the dominant mode of travel for mall-goers. Specifically, 35% use two-wheelers, 9% use cars, and 21% rely on cabs and autos. Only about 1% opt for bicycles. This preference contributes significantly to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours on roads like Velachery Main Road and General Patters Road in Royapettah, where popular malls are located.
Parking practices exacerbate the problem. While 12% of visitors use private parking facilities, 15% park in unauthorized areas. Researchers attribute this partly to mall parking fees, which can cost around Rs 100 for two hours, discouraging proper parking and adding to chaotic traffic conditions.
Call for Improved Public Transport Integration
Palani Ponnurangam, a researcher from the division of transportation engineering at Anna University, emphasized the need for better public transport connectivity. "Improving last-mile connectivity, increasing bus frequency, including AC buses, and creating dedicated bus stops near malls could boost public transport usage," he said. Currently, only Forum Vijaya Mall in Vadapalani and Aerohub have direct metro links, highlighting a gap in infrastructure.
Professor Ganapathy Malarvizhi, another researcher, stressed proactive planning by regulatory authorities. "Before giving approval to malls, regulatory authorities have to anticipate the number of vehicles expected, vehicle trips, and the road network in the area to avoid traffic congestion in the future," she noted. This is crucial as more malls are planned for Chennai, potentially worsening congestion if not addressed.
Broader Implications and Expert Recommendations
The study also found that mall visits are not solely for shopping; many people go to watch movies, eat, spend time in game zones, or relax. This diverse footfall increases traffic demands. K P Subramanian, a former professor of urban engineering at Anna University, recommended enhanced facilities: "Designated bus bays, auto/taxi stands near the mall, and proper pick-up and drop-off zones for ride-hailing vehicles are required. Pedestrian facilities, including safe zebra crossings, signals, footpaths, and plazas near entrances, will also play a role in reducing congestion near the malls."
Sanjay Chugh, city head and director of Anarock Property Consultants Private Limited in Chennai, pointed out the economic impact. "As traffic congestion increases in Chennai, proximity to public transport is becoming a critical determinant for the success of malls," he said. "Developments located near Chennai Metro, suburban railway stations, or major bus routes naturally attract more footfall. For malls that are not directly connected, shuttle services and better last-mile connectivity from transit points can serve as effective stop-gap measures."
An official from the Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA) suggested innovative solutions. "For the malls inside the city, connectivity through metro and air-conditioned buses could be a game-changer. In other metros, malls close to metro stations get good footfall as it ensures seamless transition from transport hubs to shopping hubs. Mall owners can think of running electric vehicles from the nearest transport hub," the official added.
This comprehensive analysis underscores the urgent need for integrated urban planning to mitigate traffic congestion and promote sustainable transport in Chennai's growing retail landscape.
