CHENNAI: Online booking glitches were reported on the first day of public access to the restored Victoria Public Hall, with most visitors registering on the spot as the digital system failed to function smoothly.

Entry to the hall was allowed through eight one-hour slots per day, with bookings permitted only through a newly launched portal by the Greater Chennai Corporation.

Each slot was capped at 60 visitors. “I tried through my phone and computer since morning, but there were no options to book,” said Rahul and Preetha, who registered in person. “After several attempts, the OTP came but we could not proceed further,” said Manish.

Visitors who contacted the helpline were redirected to multiple phone numbers and informed that the issue was due to a technical glitch. GCC has now closed the hall, stating that public access and bookings will be rescheduled soon.