Weak bus shelter near Chromepet GH puts frail patients at risk

According to the locals, many people from Tambaram, Chromepet, Pallavaram, Pammal, Anagaputhur, Perungalathur, Vandalur, and Guduvanchery visit the Chromepet Government Hospital frequently for treatments. Most of them would be traveling to the hospital only by MTC buses.

The bus shelter outside the GH was introduced after there was an increase in the number of people visiting the Chromepet Government Hospital over the years, the locals said. “However, the poor condition of the bus shelter, which could even crumble and collapse any time has now forced the public to wait on the road during sun or rain to board the buses. Considering that it is a bus shelter mainly for the patients, it is pathetic that there is no roofing or seating arrangement for patients using MTC services,” said V Santhanam, a social activist from Chromepet.

He added that even after requesting the Pallavaram municipality officials on many occasions to fix the bus shelter and to maintain it properly, there was no response from their end. “During the rainy season, many deadly insects and even snakes could be spotted near the bus stop. We have made repeated complaints, but there seems to be no response from the local body,” Santhanam added.

When contacted, Pallavaram municipal engineer R Ravichandran said that they were aware of the inconvenience caused to the public and were planning to repair the shelter as soon as funds were made available. “It is not taken up mainly due to the lack of funds. We are seeking financial assistance from the local MLA as well as the MP. As soon as the funds are available, it will be taken up,”Ravichandran said.