Pvt buses using Binny Mills as parking lot choke Pulianthope
Residents and commuters say the situation is spiraling out of control as dozens of buses clog the already narrow roads, especially during peak hours, leading to severe congestion on key routes like Pulianthope High Road and Stephenson Road.
"The vehicles are parked in a location surrounded by several residential areas and schools, leading to high pedestrian traffic throughout the day. The congestion was worsened by ongoing Metro Rail construction in Pulianthope, coupled with stormwater drain repairs along Demellows Road.
As a result, Pulianthope High Road has become a major thoroughfare for commuters seeking alternative routes," said V Sathiabalan, a resident of Pattalam.
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The influx of omnibuses and heavy vehicles entering and exiting the Binny Mills premises has added to the traffic congestion, causing long delays and increasing the risk of accidents. "These buses are coming from Koyambedu and Kilambakkam bus terminals, and we are clueless as to why they lack parking facilities there and instead have to travel and park the omnibuses here," added Sathiabalan.
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Police have issued guidelines for the operation of omnibuses — including a rule that there must be at least a five-minute interval between each vehicle exiting the Binny Mills premises to ensure smoother traffic flow. They have also warned that if any accidents or congestion occur due to violations of these norms, the responsibility will rest solely with the vehicle operators.
"We are demanding that the police shift the parking area for omnibuses, especially since the roads are packed during peak hours. It has become increasingly difficult for the public to commute," said M Sadavisam of Perambur. Despite multiple attempts by TOI, police officials were unavailable for comment regarding the removal of omnibuses parked in the area.
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