Residents of Thirupparaithurai and nearby villages along the Trichy to Karur national highway are pressing the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) to enhance bus services during peak hours. This initiative aims to curb risky footboard travel among students and the public.
Safety Concerns on Trichy-Karur Highway
- High Student Population: Over 3,000 students attend six schools in Thirupparaithurai, with approximately 1,600 relying on bus services.
- Footboard Travel Risks: Due to limited buses, students often resort to dangerous footboard travel, especially during peak hours.
- Parental Concerns: Parents and residents highlight safety issues, especially for girl students, commuting on overcrowded buses.
Request for Additional Bus Services
- Previous Efforts: Three additional bus services were briefly operated last academic year but discontinued this year.
- Current Demand: Residents demand at least six additional daily services connecting Thirupparaithurai with Nangavaram, Kavundampatti, Panikkampatti, and Kurichi villages.
- Government Support: State government provided free bus passes to 1,200 students, underscoring the need for reliable bus connectivity.
TNSTC’s Response and Future Plans
- Assurance from TNSTC: Officials from TNSTC assure proactive measures to reintroduce additional bus services for Thirupparaithurai.
- Operational Planning: Plans include expanding bus routes to better connect Thirupparaithurai with major hubs like Kulithalai and Chathiram bus stand.
- Safety Initiatives: Focus on enhancing safety measures and ensuring adequate transport facilities to meet community needs.
The initiative aims not only to improve transport accessibility but also to enhance the safety and convenience of daily commuters, particularly students relying on public transport.
Source : timesofindia