In a major infrastructure push for North Chennai, the 75-year-old Broadway bus stand is poised for a complete transformation into a state-of-the-art, multi-modal transport hub. With a massive investment of Rs 800 crore, the project aims to significantly ease commuting woes for thousands of daily passengers, particularly daily wage workers.
A Foundation for Modern Commuting
The journey towards this modern facility will officially begin on January 25, 2026, when the foundation stone is laid. The redevelopment is a key component of the North Chennai Development Scheme. The upgraded Broadway bus stand will feature 73 modern bus bays, designed to handle an impressive 466 bus movements every hour. This enhanced capacity is expected to drastically reduce congestion and provide a smoother, safer travel experience for the public.
Ensuring Uninterrupted Service During Construction
To maintain seamless bus operations while the new hub is constructed, the Chennai authorities have planned interim facilities. Temporary bus terminals will be established at Royapuram and Island Grounds. The Royapuram terminal, costing Rs 7.47 crore, is expected to manage about 2,000 bus trips daily, serving nearly 40,000 passengers. The Island Grounds facility, with a budget of Rs 7.77 crore, will share the commuter load, helping balance traffic and prevent overcrowding during the transition phase.
Funding and Comprehensive Amenities
The substantial funding for this Rs 800-crore project will be pooled from allocations by the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA), the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC), and other government departments. This joint effort underscores the project's scale and importance.
The new multi-modal hub, integrated with Kuralagam, will be designed with passenger comfort and accessibility at its core. Planned amenities include:
- Seating areas and ramps for persons with disabilities.
- Separate toilet facilities and drinking water.
- Dedicated breastfeeding rooms and public conveniences.
- Two-wheeler parking, paved roads, and proper street lighting.
These features aim to make commuting not just efficient but also comfortable and inclusive for all sections of society.
Broader Development for North Chennai
Alongside the transport hub, other civic projects are underway to boost North Chennai's infrastructure. Restoration work is ongoing at Villivakkam lake to improve the local environment and water quality. Furthermore, a new community hall in SIDCO Nagar is being built at a cost of Rs 6.75 crore, and urban primary health centres along with ward offices are being constructed with a combined investment of over Rs 18 crore. These initiatives collectively signal a focused effort to enhance the overall quality of life and public infrastructure in the region.
