Trichy Floats Tender for Private Maintenance of ₹246-Crore Panjapur Bus Terminus

The Trichy City Corporation floated a tender to engage a private agency for running and managing the future Integrated Bus Terminus (IBT) at Panjapur for 15 years under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

Constructed at a cost of ₹246 crore, the air-conditioned building will be operated by a concessionaire chosen through the tender process. To maintain the quality of services, the corporation has implemented key performance indicators (KPIs) and a stringent penalty regime for shortcomings.

The chosen agency will oversee key operations, such as electrical and mechanical systems, refuse collection, parking services, and rent collection from shops in the terminus. Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras will be mounted to track car movements and a reception counter will be installed to help passengers.

To encourage environmentally friendly practices, the agency must also install water bottle vending machines and cloth bags in six locations within the terminal. Cleanliness will be closely monitored failure to clean the circulation area and platforms will attract a penalty of ₹10,000 per day. Common access areas must be cleaned three times daily, and any lapse in waste collection will lead to a ₹2,000 penalty. All fines will increase by 15% every three years and be deducted from the agency’s payments.

However, the corporation has not outlined penalties for failures in maintaining the air conditioning system.

“Escalators and lifts need regular upkeep as the terminal spans two levels,” said S Manoharan, a resident of Cantonment.

Defending the outsourcing decision, Mayor Mu Anbalagan said, “Maintaining such a large facility with in-house staff is a challenge. Through a private operator, we aim to ensure the best quality in operation and maintenance.”

The IBT is expected to streamline intercity and intracity bus services and reduce congestion within the city once operational. The move to outsource maintenance reflects the civic body’s effort to combine infrastructure development with long-term service sustainability.