Vijayanagar Junction traffic problems persist despite new flyover

Vijayanagar Junction in Velachery, Chennai, is facing serious traffic congestion despite the recent construction of a flyover. The flyover was expected to ease traffic for the thousands of people using the junction, but instead, it remains heavily congested. Residents had high hopes for relief from traffic jams after the flyover was completed. However, significant traffic still plagues the area, especially during peak hours. The current design allows only one-way traffic on both arms of the flyover, which many critics see as a major flaw. The presence of the Vijayanagar bus terminus right at the junction further worsens the situation. Buses parked at the terminus narrow the road and cause frequent traffic jams. Local motorists report that the congestion is particularly bad when buses are parked on the western side of the junction. Activists and local residents suggest that moving the bus terminus to an area with more space, such as near the Velachery MRTS Station, could help reduce traffic. They argue this change would not only ease congestion but also increase the use of public transport. The Transport Department is currently constructing a new bus terminus, but some residents believe the money could be better spent relocating the existing terminus. Shifting it near the MRTS station could streamline bus operations and enhance connectivity in the area. Residents recall that the bus terminus was actually located near the MRTS station in the past. Many feel that the stakeholders have not taken advantage of available land and resources to improve transportation. A senior official from the Metropolitan Transport Corporation has stated that the idea of moving the bus terminus will be reviewed.