Sun Nov 23 13:53:22 UTC 2025: Summary:

Passengers waiting at the Seelanaickenpatti bypass junction in Salem, Tamil Nadu, face a lack of basic amenities like toilets, bus shelters, and drinking water. Despite the heavy passenger traffic due to its location on a major highway and its function as a transfer point for various destinations, the area lacks adequate facilities. A previously existing bus shelter is damaged, and the Salem Corporation claims to lack funds and permission from the Highways Department for improvements. Residents are demanding immediate action, particularly for shelters and toilet facilities. The Corporation states it has applied to the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) for a no-objection certificate (NOC) to begin construction.

News Article:

Salem Commuters Demand Basic Amenities at Seelanaickenpatti Bypass

Salem, Tamil Nadu – November 23, 2025 – Passengers using the Seelanaickenpatti bypass junction in Salem are facing significant hardship due to the lack of essential amenities such as toilets, bus shelters, and safe waiting areas. The junction, a key transit point for buses heading to Namakkal, Tiruchi, Karur, Dindigul, and Madurai, as well as for those heading to local areas within Salem, sees a high volume of daily commuters.

Residents report that a previously existing bus shelter, funded through MP funds, has fallen into disrepair. Commuters, including elderly individuals, are forced to wait in the open, exposed to harsh weather conditions, leading to safety concerns. Stagnant water during rains poses a further hazard.

Ward 60 Councillor S.A. Varadharaj of AIADMK stated that the Corporation has cited a lack of funds and denied permission from the Highways Department as reasons for inaction. The issue will be raised in the upcoming Corporation council meeting.

“People have to wait in the open, rain or shine,” said P. Shanmugam, a local resident who commutes daily from the junction. “The Corporation should provide bus shelters soon with proper lighting, and set up toilet facility.”

Salem Corporation officials have stated they have applied for a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) to proceed with construction of the necessary facilities. Work is expected to commence once the NOC is granted. The lack of amenities highlights the need for improved infrastructure for the growing passenger traffic at this crucial junction.

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