Poor response from banks makes ATMs at bus depots a non-starter

However, the commuters of depots on the outskirts, including the newly-built terminus in Madhavaram, demand for an ATM similar to the facility present inside the Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus at Koyambedu.

“The passengers and even the MTC workers in the depot have to travel at least three kilometres from the depot to find the nearest ATM. The authorities should also consider adding a few more kiosks inside the Koyambedu bus terminus considering the high footfall. We have to wait for a long time to withdraw money during the festival seasons,” said S Ashvathi, aregular commuter.

The commuters of Pattinapakkam terminus must travel either to Adyar or Santhome to access an ATM. Likewise, the commuters of Kundrathur and Perumbakkam must travel a minimum of three kilometres to locate such a facility.

Although all the 32 depots except the Koyambedu lack ATM facility, commuters are pressing the transport utility to install ATMs at least in the depots which needs the most. This includes depots at Perumbakkam, Kannagi Nagar, Pattinapakkam and Kundrathur.

MTC Managing Director Anbu Abraham said, “We decided to float a tender inviting the banks to set up ATMs in the depots. However, we received a lukewarm response. We will be finding alternative ways to make a headway in this matter.”

“The authorities have to ensure that ATM facilities are available at all the depots, especially those on the outskirts. The ones travelling from the city depots will not be facing any difficulties as they are well-connected,” said V Sundar, another regular commuter.