Chennai: The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is set to develop two major multi-modal integration hubs at Mint Street-Washermenpet Metro and Chepauk-Marina at an estimated cost of Rs 40 crore. These hubs are designed to connect metro rail, suburban trains, buses, pedestrians, cyclists, and last-mile services, addressing the long-standing issues of poor pedestrian access, chaotic traffic movement, and lack of seamless connectivity between different modes of public transport in the city.
Mint Street-Washermenpet Hub
The Mint Street-Washermenpet stretch witnesses heavy passenger movement daily due to a concentration of wholesale markets, commercial establishments, and residential neighborhoods. The proposed system is expected to streamline pedestrian movement around the metro station and improve access for commuters traveling towards Broadway, Royapuram, and nearby localities, according to a senior GCC official.
Chepauk-Marina Hub
Similarly, the Chepauk-Marina corridor, which sees massive footfall owing to educational institutes, government offices, the beach, and sports venues, is expected to benefit significantly from the project. The project will include improved walkways, designated pick-up and drop-off points, cycling infrastructure, and commuter-friendly public spaces aimed at reducing bottlenecks near stations.
Expert Insights
Urban planners have pointed out that Chennai's expanding metro network can deliver its full benefits only if commuters can seamlessly access stations through buses, suburban rail, and safe pedestrian facilities. S. Kirthana, an urban planner, noted that several metro stations across the city continue to face issues such as narrow footpaths, traffic congestion, and unregulated parking, which discourage people from shifting to public transport. The new hubs aim to address these challenges and encourage greater use of public transit.
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