Sun Apr 20 13:03:34 UTC 2025: ## High Rents Leave New Mettur Bus Stand Shops Empty
**Salem, Tamil Nadu, April 20, 2025** – Fifty-nine shops at the newly constructed Mettur bus stand in Salem district remain unoccupied two months after completion, due to high rental costs. The ₹6.4 crore bus stand, completed in January 2025, boasts 69 shops, parking, and toilet facilities, replacing a 1992 structure. However, the new rent, ranging from ₹11,000 to ₹13,000 per month (excluding GST), is significantly higher than the ₹4,000 to ₹5,000 charged previously. A substantial ₹2 lakh deposit is also required, along with a 5% annual rent increase and penalties for late payments.
Local traders cite the lower passenger volume at the Mettur bus stand compared to larger city terminals as a major factor contributing to the lack of occupancy. Despite three auction attempts, only 10 shops have been rented.
Mettur Municipality Chairperson G. Chandra confirmed that the council has passed a resolution urging a rent reduction, which will be forwarded to the Municipal Administration department. The high rents and associated costs are proving a major obstacle to attracting tenants to the new facility.
First Piper 