Chennai's Broadway Bus Stand to Transform into ₹823 Crore Multi-Modal Transport Hub
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Thursday ceremoniously laid the foundation stone for a monumental ₹822.7 crore multi-modal integrated transport bus terminus and commercial complex at the historic Broadway bus stand in Chennai. This ambitious infrastructure project marks a significant leap forward in the city's public transport and urban development landscape.
Architectural Marvel with Comprehensive Facilities
The new development will feature a nine-storey complex alongside a ten-storey commercial building, constructed on a sprawling 26,240 square meters of land. The total built-up area is projected to be an impressive 1.36 lakh square meters. Key components of the facility include:
- 73 modern bus bays designed for efficient operations
- A spacious passenger concourse for comfortable waiting areas
- Dedicated retail spaces and office areas for commercial activities
- Extensive parking provisions for 433 cars and 1,174 two-wheelers
- Advanced amenities including lifts, escalators, and comprehensive fire safety systems
- State-of-the-art ventilation, air-conditioning, and sewage treatment facilities
- An integrated building management system and well-maintained public toilets
Seamless Integration with Chennai's Transport Network
Officials emphasized that the terminal has been meticulously designed to ensure smooth passenger movement without interfering with bus operations. The facility is strategically planned to integrate multiple transport modes into a single, cohesive hub. This includes seamless connectivity with:
- The High Court Metro station
- MRTS and suburban rail services
- The bus terminus itself
This integration aims to provide commuters with a convenient, efficient, and hassle-free travel experience across different public transport options.
Historical Context and Modern Necessity
The Broadway and Thanga Salai bus stands were originally constructed in the early 1960s and opened for public use in 1964. Initially, Broadway handled outstation bus services, but increasing congestion in the area necessitated the relocation of mofussil operations to Koyambedu in 2002. Since then, it has functioned primarily as a city bus terminus, witnessing steadily growing footfall over the years.
Addressing Congestion and Enhancing Commuter Experience
Transport authorities highlighted that this transformative project will significantly ease congestion in the Broadway area while providing an efficient and commuter-friendly transport experience. It represents a crucial component of Chennai's ongoing public transport and urban infrastructure upgrade initiatives, aimed at modernizing the city's mobility framework.
Temporary Arrangements During Construction
Pending completion of construction, buses previously operating from the Broadway terminus have been temporarily relocated to alternative locations:
- Buses plying to north Chennai areas are now operating from a temporary bus terminus at Ibrahim Salai in Royapuram
- Buses serving south Chennai routes are plying via Kamarajar Salai from Island Grounds
These interim measures ensure continued bus services for Chennai residents while the new integrated transport hub takes shape, promising a future of enhanced connectivity and urban convenience for India's vibrant southern metropolis.
