Fri Apr 18 18:37:13 UTC 2025: ## Pallavaram-Thoraipakkam Radial Road Booms, but Public Transport Lags Behind
**Chennai, April 19, 2025** – The Pallavaram-Thoraipakkam Radial Road, a rapidly developing IT corridor in Chennai, is facing a critical shortage of public transport, despite its burgeoning population and commercial activity. Residents and civic activists are demanding increased bus services from the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) to meet the growing needs of the area.
The road, connecting Rajiv Gandhi Salai and the Grand Southern Trunk Road, has experienced a surge in residential and commercial development, including numerous IT firms, educational institutions, and hospitals. The recent completion of a twin-flyover at Keelkattalai junction has significantly improved traffic flow, making it a popular alternative route to the congested Velachery Main Road.
However, residents argue that the MTC’s current bus services, primarily routes 91 and 91R, are woefully inadequate for the thousands living in neighborhoods like Kovilambakkam, Sunnambu Kolathur, and Old Pallavaram. They are calling for increased frequency on existing routes and the introduction of new services connecting key areas across the city via the radial road, including shuttle services between Velachery and Chromepet railway stations.
Retired IIT-Madras official Kasi Raju highlighted the significant population residing along the road and the lack of sufficient public transport options. Other residents suggested the introduction of short-distance shuttle buses to improve connectivity to the Mass Rapid Transit System and reduce reliance on private vehicles.
In response, an MTC official acknowledged the growing demand and stated that proposals for new deluxe bus services are underway, including routes connecting the airport to Akkarai and Kilambakkam via the radial road. However, residents remain hopeful for a quicker resolution to the pressing public transport issue.
First Piper 