Tamil Nadu: 6.05 lakh travel on special buses as Pongal rush builds up

CHENNAI: As many as 6,05,850 passengers travelled on government buses over five days between January 9 and January 13, as special services were operated across Tamil Nadu ahead of the Pongal festival.

Transport and Electricity Minister SS Sivasankar on January 13 inspected the operation of special buses at the Kalaignar Centenary Bus Terminus at Kilambakkam.

For Pongal 2026, special buses are being operated from three major terminals in Chennai: the Kilambakkam terminus, Koyambedu Terminus, and the Madhavaram New Bus Stand. From January 9 to January 14, a total of 22,797 buses, including 10,245 special services over six days along with 2,092 daily services, are being operated from Chennai. In addition, 11,290 special buses are being run from other towns, taking the total number of services to 34,087.

As of 8 pm on January 13, 1,696 of the 2,092 daily services and 1,062 of the 2,790 special buses had been operated from Chennai, carrying 1,17,070 passengers on the day.

Between January 9 and January 13, a total of 14,130 buses, including daily and special services, were operated, transporting 6,05,850 passengers.

After Pongal, from January 16 to January 19, arrangements have been made to operate 25,008 buses for passengers returning to Chennai. This includes 6,820 special buses along with 2,092 daily services from Chennai and 9,820 buses from other major towns.

In terms of advance bookings, 4,27,132 passengers have reserved tickets on government buses this year, compared with 4,76,358 last year.

Passengers can contact the 24x7 helpline at 9445614436 for information or complaints regarding government bus operations. Complaints related to overcharging by omni buses can be made through the toll free number 1800 425 6151 or 9445117974.

For public convenience, the MTC is operating round-the-clock connecting services from the Koyambedu Terminus to the other two bus terminals.