Transport Gaps in Nanganallur Take Centre Stage in CUMTA-Community Meet

In a landmark meeting 'Last - Mile Connectivity'  held earlier today, officials from the Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA) met with Nanganallur resident association leaders, members of the public, and transportation representatives to address pressing concerns around urban mobility in the region. The meeting served as a powerful platform for suggestion, action, and collective problem-solving.

Advertisement (Contact 72003 05853 for ads)

Minutes of the Meeting – Key Issues Discussed:

1. Lack of Proper Connectivity to Major Transit Stations
Residents highlighted that despite being densely populated, Nanganallur lacks seamless access to key transit hubs, including:

• Meenambakkam Metro Station

• Meenambakkam Railway Station

• Pazhavanthangal Railway Station

• Nanganallur Road (OTA) Metro Station

The area’s current connectivity fails to support its growing population and daily commuters.

2. Inadequate Bus Services in the Area

• Only one/ two mini-bus currently operates within Nanganallur, and the main buses with limited frequency.

• There was a unanimous demand to increase the number and frequency of mini-bus services and explore the possibility of introducing regular-sized MTC buses.

3. Metro Network Gaps and the Last-Mile Problem
An example discussed was the difficulty in travelling from St Thomas Mount Metro Station to the Airport Metro Station, which currently requires a changeover at Alandur.

• While some residents suggested extending the line from St Thomas Mount Metro Station to Meenambakkam, officials clarified that metro expansion plans have already been finalized and cannot be altered at this stage.

• However, alternate last-mile shuttle options or feeder services between key metro stations are now under consideration.

4. Poor Maintenance of MRTS and Suburban Stations

• Participants raised concern over broken escalators, non-functional lifts, and general disrepair at multiple stations, particularly on the Velachery–Chennai Beach MRTS line and at some stations on the Chennai Beach–Tambaram suburban line.

• The need for timely maintenance and safety improvements at these stations was emphasized strongly.

• Resuming the Functioning of platform ticket counter in Meenambakkam Railway Station.

5. Encroachments Blocking Transit Access

• Some attendees pointed out that road encroachments are hampering smooth access to bus and auto stands.

• While removal of encroachments falls under the Corporation and Police, CUMTA officials assured that they will escalate the matter to the appropriate departments and push for coordinated action.

Participants:

• CUMTA Officials
  (CUMTA is the body responsible for integrating Chennai's transport systems – buses, metro, rail, autos, and more.)

• Representatives from various transport and civic departments

• Exnora of Transportation Respresentatives

• Heads of local welfare associations from Nanganallur

• Residents and public voices from across Nanganallur

Official Response:

CUMTA officials were highly receptive and actively engaged with all points raised. They welcomed community input and urged residents and associations to send formal representations through letters or email so that action can be taken in an organized, documented manner.

Their promise was clear: issues raised will be addressed, and solutions will be explored wherever feasible.

Community Appreciation:

Nanganallur Connect extends heartfelt thanks to CUMTA for taking part in today’s meaningful discussion. We also thank all participating officials, association heads, and residents for coming forward with constructive inputs that could shape Nanganallur’s transport future.

As a community-driven platform, we remain committed to following up on these developments and continuing to voice local concerns until positive change is achieved.

Send Nanganallur to 72003 05853 to receive Nanganallur updates directly on your WhatsApp.
For advertising opportunities on Nanganallur Connect, reach out to us.