For over four decades, commuters and transport workers in North Chennai faced severe hardships at the makeshift Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) bus halt on Ennore High Road. Passengers had to wait under open skies in extreme heat and torrential rain, while drivers and conductors lacked basic amenities.
That long wait has finally come to an end. The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has completed the construction of the new, modern IOC bus terminus.
Key Details of the Project
- Investment: Built at a cost of ₹2.4 crore by the GCC.
- Land Parcel: The site spans 16,000 square feet on railway land, secured on a 32-year lease for ₹1.8 crore using RK Nagar MLA funds.
- Local Impact: Directly benefits over 40,000 residents across 32 localities, including Nedunchezhian Nagar, Nethaji Nagar, Korukkupet, and Manali.
Upgraded Facilities for Passengers & Staff
The brand-new facility replaces years of neglected conditions with essential amenities:
- Spacious passenger seating and covered weather shelters.
- Restrooms for men, women, and persons with disabilities (PwD).
- Dedicated lactation rooms for nursing mothers.
- Time-keeping rooms and rest spaces for MTC staff.
- 24/7 CCTV surveillance for enhanced security.
Restoring Vital Transit Connections
Currently, the terminus only serves the 44 Cut route (IOC to Island Grounds) and the C1 Circular route. Local representatives and residents have urged the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) to restore major key routes that operated two decades ago:
- Route 159D: Koyambedu
- Route 1F: Tiruvanmiyur
- Route 4D: Adyar
- Route 170E: Tambaram
- Route 44C: Anna Square
- Route 15A: Vadapalani
Restoring these connections will dramatically cut travel time for office goers, students, daily wagers, and senior citizens. Local leaders have also requested renaming the terminus after a national leader.
With physical construction 100% complete, the GCC is now awaiting an official inauguration date from the Tamil Nadu State Government and the MTC to open the doors to the public.