Anbumani Opposes Mall, Demands Green Park

PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss has strongly appealed to the Tamil Nadu government not to transform the existing Koyambedu bus terminus land into a commercial shopping mall. Instead, he urged the state to use the valuable 36-acre site for the creation of a large urban green park that would benefit the people of Chennai.

In his statement, Anbumani said that after most major bus services were shifted from Koyambedu to the newly developed bus termini at Kilambakkam and Kuthambakkam, the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) had reportedly prepared three possible development plans for the land. These proposals include building a massive urban green park, developing a mixed-use commercial complex, or constructing a large shopping mall.

Anbumani argued that converting such an important public space into another commercial center would only increase traffic congestion, pollution, and pressure on Chennai’s already crowded urban infrastructure. He emphasized that Chennai is in urgent need of more green spaces, parks, and environmentally sustainable projects to improve air quality, reduce heat, and provide better recreational areas for residents.

He further stated that a world-class urban green park at Koyambedu could become a major ecological and social asset for the city, offering families, children, and senior citizens a healthy public space. According to him, preserving the land for environmental purposes would be a long-term investment in Chennai’s future rather than prioritizing short-term commercial profits.

Anbumani also pointed out that major global cities are increasingly focusing on expanding urban green zones to improve quality of life, and Chennai should follow a similar path. He called on the government to prioritize public welfare and sustainable urban planning over commercial interests.

The demand has sparked wider discussion among urban planners, environmentalists, and residents, many of whom believe that developing a green park could significantly enhance Chennai’s urban landscape. The final decision by the Tamil Nadu government on the future of the Koyambedu site is now being closely watched.