Monorail runs into satellite bus terminal plan

CHENNAI: The plan to develop a satellite intercity bus terminal in Velachery has been delayed due to a propo­sed monorail station in the area and a decision is likely to be taken after April this year once the government decides on the land requirement for the station.Sources told Express that with the proposal for a monorail station at the location, the satellite bus terminal is likely to be delayed.The government had already accorded sanction to Velachery satellite bus terminal to ease the traffic congestion in Koyambedu. The project, which was to be taken up by Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority, was likely to come up at the site near the MRTS station measuring about 12 acres.The blow to the proposal came when monorail station was proposed at the site. During a recent meeting, the Transport Department has urged the CMDA to ensure land requirements for the project before starting the feasibility study for the satellite bus terminal.As a result, CMDA has put on hold the commissioning of feasibility study for satellite intercity bus terminal after ascertaining the availability of the requirements of the mono rail station proposed at the location.Sources said the first phase of monorail system is likely to have a network of four elevated corridors, of which Velachery would be connected to Vandalur via Tambaram East.Meanwhile, the proposal to build world class Madhavaram inter-state bus terminal is gathering speed with CMDA set to invite tenders for appointing consultants for preparation of feasibility report and detailed project report.The proposal for Velachery satellite bus terminal and Madhavaram inter- state bus terminal were announced during the budget session of the Tamil Nadu Assembly.