Poonamallee Bus Hub to Move to Kuthambakkam by March
Chennai’s transport infrastructure is set for a major shift as the Poonamallee bus hub moves to Kuthambakkam to enhance connectivity for mofussil and long-distance travellers.
The Kuthambakkam mofussil bus terminus, constructed by the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) at a cost of Rs 427 crore, is expected to be inaugurated in March 2025.
With this shift, the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) has decided to relocate all 150 buses operating from Poonamallee to Kuthambakkam.
This move aims to decongest major city roads and improve access to suburban and rural areas. Meanwhile, the Poonamallee depot will be repurposed as a dedicated hub for the maintenance and operation of 120 electric buses.
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Key Details of Poonamallee Bus Hub Shift to Kuthambakkam
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Terminus Location | Kuthambakkam, near Thirumazhisai, along Chennai-Bengaluru NH |
| Distance from Poonamallee | 8.5 km |
| Distance from CMBT | 23.5 km |
| Cost of Construction | Rs 427 crore |
| Expected Inauguration | March 2025 |
| Purpose of Relocation | Decongest city roads and improve rural connectivity |
Changes in MTC Bus Operations
The Poonamallee bus hub’s move to Kuthambakkam will result in several modifications to MTC’s bus routes and services:
- 150 existing buses from Poonamallee depot will be shifted to Kuthambakkam.
- 10 new buses will be introduced on the CMBT to Kuthambakkam route.
- 10 new buses will operate between KCBT and Kuthambakkam.
- Route 66 (Tambaram to Poonamallee via Kundrathur) will now extend to Kuthambakkam.
- Routes 202/206 (KCBT to Avadi) will be rerouted via the outer ring road for better connectivity.
- The number of Route 104 C (CMBT to KCBT via Chennai Bypass) services has increased from 10 to 30.
- Future expansions will be based on passenger demand.
Impact of Bus Hub Shift
The relocation of the Poonamallee bus hub to Kuthambakkam will bring several benefits:
- Reduced traffic congestion on arterial roads in Chennai.
- Improved connectivity for long-distance and suburban commuters.
- Better integration with railway services, as bus routes will be adjusted to connect Thiruninravur railway station (8 km from Kuthambakkam).
- Enhanced suburban transport, with MTC planning to redeploy buses from suburban areas towards the city during peak hours.
Also Read: Singara Chennai Card for MTC: A Detailed Guide on Usage, Benefits, and Application
Poonamallee Depot to Become E-Bus Hub
As part of Chennai’s shift towards sustainable transport, the Poonamallee depot will be converted into a dedicated hub for electric buses. MTC is currently upgrading infrastructure at the depot, including the installation of charging stations and other commuter-friendly amenities.
