Even as Chennaiites are gearing up to have a Metro Rail ride between Koyambedu and Alandur, the Chennai Metrorail Limited (CMRL) is preparing to provide proper connectivity to their stations.
The CMRL will be launching its services in its corridor II-stage I stations between Koyambedu and Alandur soon. There are a total of seven stations on this elevated stretch, including Vadapalani and Ashok Nagar.
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The officials conducted a study for two months to assess the routes that connect the stations. Around 30 routes around the seven stations were arrived at.
“Some of them were narrow and we thought of roping in para-transport modes like share autorickshaws in these roads. Small buses and MTC buses will be used on bigger routes. The feeder services will cover a distance of five kilometers around every station,” said a CMRL official.
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Officials claim that the stations have been setup in such a manner that they are only 300 meters away from bus stands or railway stations. “We have also laid platforms for easy access to the stations. In future, we will be working on syncing the frequency of the metro trains with that of the MTC buses and also bring out common tickets and a timetable. This will help commuters plan their journey more efficiently,” added the official.
Meanwhile MTC officials said they are ready to provide the buses as soon as Metro Rail officials need them. “CMRL officials have to work out the frequency of their trains. Based on this, we will provide buses. Passengers will not have to wait for long for the feeder service. We now have small buses too across the city,” said an MTC official.
Besides, CMRL officials are certain of an enhanced public transport system once the other corridors start functioning.
The stations coming up in Broadway, Mint, Anna Salai and St. Thomas mount are placed in such a manner that they are close to bus stands or termini.
CMRL officials are certain of an enhanced public transport system once the all corridors start functioning