Arapalayam Bus Stand Revamp Nears Completion Amid Concerns

An overhaul of Madurai’s Arapalayam bus stand, one of the most important transit points for buses traveling to western Tamil Nadu, is all set to be completed, years after plans for the work were prepared. Launched by the 2023-24 budget of the Madurai Corporation, the ₹2 crore project is slated for completion by the end of this month. Work includes relaying paver blocks, providing more seating for passengers, installing handrails on platforms, repairing shops and refurbishing the entrance arch. Built three decades ago, the bus stand had been in poor condition for years, with broken paver blocks and an uneven surface making travel inconvenient for passengers. Responding to these concerns, the corporation launched the improvement works last week to enhance the commuter experience.

Despite the upgrades, concerns remain over issues left unaddressed. Ward 58 Councillor D. Jeyaraman (DMK) raised concerns about the lack of underground drainage (UGD) repairs in the revamp plan. “Passengers are forced to wade through sewage water due to damaged UGD connections, making their footwear dirty even before boarding the buses,” he pointed out. He also emphasized the need for additional toilet facilities, noting that the existing two restrooms along with one under construction are insufficient for the daily footfall. However, he acknowledged the improvements made so far, stating that the bus stand is in much better shape with repaired shops and newly relaid paver blocks.

A senior corporation official assured that the final phase of work is focused on stormwater drainage connections to the nearby Chintamani channel to prevent water stagnation. “Six manholes will be installed along the pipeline to facilitate cleaning in case of blockages. All work will be completed within this month,” the official confirmed.

Meanwhile, traffic activist T. Nageshwaran criticized the investment in revamping the bus stand instead of considering relocation. He pointed out that congestion at Arapalayam is worsening, and the proposal to shift operations to Paravai panchayat has remained stalled. “With the corporation discussing ward extensions, it’s time to reconsider relocating the bus stand instead of spending more on temporary fixes,” he said.

As the project nears completion, questions remain about whether these upgrades will be enough to address the long-term needs of passengers.