Fri Nov 22 16:45:37 UTC 2024: ## Two TNSTC Bus Accidents Highlight Madurai Traffic Concerns
**Madurai, Tamil Nadu, November 22, 2024** – Two separate incidents involving Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) buses in Madurai have raised serious concerns about the city’s traffic infrastructure and the condition of the buses themselves. Both accidents involved brake failures on the Ellis Nagar road overbridge near the Periyar bus stand.
The first incident saw a speeding bus crash into a tree after its brakes failed on Kamarajar Salai. The second, occurring just days earlier, resulted in the bus colliding with three autorickshaws and concrete blocks after its brakes gave way while descending the overbridge. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported in either incident, although several passengers sustained minor injuries.
These incidents have brought into focus the deteriorating condition of many TNSTC buses and the dangerous placement of a traffic signal at the foot of the Ellis Nagar overbridge. A senior Madurai City Traffic Police official stated that the positioning of the signal directly adjacent to the bridge is unique and hazardous, especially considering the steep incline and the potential for brake failures leading to accidents. Vehicles parked on the sloping terrain further exacerbate the risk.
Fifteen years ago, during a major renovation of the Ellis Nagar bridge, a proposal to extend the bridge and relocate the traffic signal was made. However, this plan was thwarted by opposition from local traders.
Traffic police have now suggested a solution: restricting buses from exiting the Periyar bus stand towards the Kattabomman junction. Instead, buses would exit through the rear entrance, circumventing the overbridge ramp and eliminating the need for the traffic signal. This measure would facilitate free-flowing traffic and eliminate the hazardous bottleneck. The feasibility of this proposal is yet to be determined.
First Piper 