Big rush for Chennai buses after cancellation of train routes in Tiruchi

Heavy passenger rush at the Central Bus Stand in Tiruchi following the cancellation of trains bound for Chennai on Monday.
| Photo Credit: M. MOORTHY

Following the cancellation of trains to Chennai in the aftermath of the Cyclone Fengal, a big rush was witnessed at the Central Bus Stand on Monday morning as passengers rushed to board buses to reach the capital.

M. Lokesh, who was to travel to Chennai, was in a fix after the cancellation of trains. “I was to board Cholan Express at 11 a.m., but I’m not sure if I can make it on time. We are stranded here at the bus stand because of limited buses,” he told The Hindu.

Students who came from other districts to participate in a silambam tournament held here were among those stranded.

A senior official of Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC), Tiruchi region, said that eight additional buses were operated to Chennai to take passengers up to Kilambakkam Bus Terminus. Three buses were sent to Villupuram to transport stranded travellers from there, he added.

According to R. Balakrishnan, president, Tiruchi Omni Bus Operators Association, around 15 additional buses were operated from Tiruchi to Chennai till afternoon due to the cancellation of trains.

Later in the day, the rush had eased as many passengers stayed back after learning about heavy traffic congestion and diversion due to roadblock near Villupuram on Tiruchi-Chennai Highway. A senior police official here said on Monday evening that traffic between Villupuram and Ulundurpet was affected.