Tamil Nadu to Operate 2,470 Special Buses for Onam and Milad-un-Nabi Holidays

In anticipation of the festive season, the Tamil Nadu State Express Transport Corporation (SETC) has announced the operation of 2,470 special buses to accommodate the increased travel demand during the consecutive holidays of Onam and Milad-un-Nabi in September 2025. This initiative aims to ensure seamless travel for thousands of passengers across Tamil Nadu and neighboring states, facilitating smooth journeys during this significant period of celebration and reflection.

Details of Special Bus Operations

The Tamil Nadu Transport Department has strategically planned the deployment of special buses to cater to the expected surge in passenger traffic during the festive holidays. According to a press release from the Managing Director of the SETC, a total of 710 special buses will operate today, September 4, 2025, from Kilambakkam to major destinations such as Tiruvannamalai, Tiruchi, Kumbakonam, Madurai, Tirunelveli, Nagercoil, Kanyakumari, Thoothukudi, Coimbatore, Salem, Erode, and Tiruppur. On September 5, 2025, an additional 405 buses will continue to serve these routes, ensuring connectivity during the peak of Milad-un-Nabi celebrations.

In addition to the Kilambakkam operations, 105 special buses will be deployed from Coimbatore on both September 4 and 5, 2025, while 25 buses will operate from Madhavaram on September 4. To further enhance connectivity, 350 special buses are scheduled to run from Bengaluru, Tiruppur, Erode, and Coimbatore to various destinations across Tamil Nadu and neighboring states, catering to the needs of interstate travelers during the festive period.

Return Journey Arrangements

To facilitate the return of holidaymakers to Chennai, the Transport Department has planned the operation of 875 special buses on Sunday, September 7, 2025. This significant allocation ensures that commuters can return to the state capital without hassle, particularly after the extended weekend that includes Onam, Milad-un-Nabi, and the regular weekend days of September 6 and 7. The department’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to meeting the travel demands of citizens during this busy period.

Advance Reservations and Passenger Convenience

The SETC has reported that advance reservations for over 41,000 passengers have already been made for the special buses, reflecting the high demand for travel during the festive season. To ensure a seamless booking experience, passengers are encouraged to book tickets online through the official Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) website or partner platforms like redBus and AbhiBus. This digital ticketing system minimizes the need to stand in long queues at bus depots, offering a convenient and efficient way to secure seats.

The Transport Department has also emphasized the availability of real-time bus tracking and detailed timetable information through its official app and website. These tools allow passengers to plan their journeys effectively, ensuring timely departures and arrivals. The initiative aligns with TNSTC’s reputation for punctuality and customer service, making it a preferred choice for travelers across Tamil Nadu and neighboring states.

Significance of Onam and Milad-un-Nabi

Onam, a major harvest festival celebrated predominantly in Kerala, marks a time of joy, cultural festivities, and family reunions. The festival, observed on September 4 and 5, 2025, draws thousands of travelers, particularly from Tamil Nadu’s significant Malayali population, to return to their hometowns or visit relatives. Similarly, Milad-un-Nabi, commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad, is observed on September 5, 2025, and is a significant occasion for the Muslim community, involving prayers, gatherings, and charitable activities. The confluence of these festivals with the weekend creates an extended holiday period, prompting a surge in travel demand across the region.

The Tamil Nadu Transport Department’s decision to operate special buses reflects its commitment to supporting cultural and religious celebrations. By providing additional services to key destinations, including pilgrimage sites and major towns, the department ensures that commuters can participate in these festivities without transportation barriers. The special buses also cater to popular routes such as Chennai to Kanyakumari, Coimbatore to Bengaluru, and Salem to Tirunelveli, ensuring connectivity to both urban and rural areas.

Enhancing Travel Infrastructure

The operation of 2,470 special buses is part of Tamil Nadu’s broader efforts to strengthen its public transportation infrastructure. The Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC), with its fleet of over 20,000 buses, serves more than 17 million passengers daily across 5,190 routes. The addition of special buses during festive seasons demonstrates the corporation’s ability to scale operations to meet peak demand, ensuring that travelers experience minimal disruptions.

The special buses include a mix of deluxe, air-conditioned, and ultra-deluxe services, catering to diverse passenger needs. For instance, air-conditioned buses are available for long-distance routes like Chennai to Kanyakumari, offering comfort during extended journeys. The SETC has also prioritized safety and punctuality, with professionally trained staff available to address passenger queries and ensure a smooth travel experience.

Impact on Travelers and Local Economy

The deployment of special buses is expected to have a positive impact on both travelers and the local economy. For passengers, the availability of additional services reduces the risk of overcrowding and ensures timely travel to their destinations. The advance booking system, with over 41,000 reservations already made, reflects the public’s trust in TNSTC’s services and its ability to handle large-scale travel demands.

Economically, the increased bus services are likely to boost local businesses, particularly in tourist and pilgrimage destinations like Tiruvannamalai, Kanyakumari, and Madurai. The influx of travelers during the festive season supports hotels, restaurants, and local vendors, contributing to economic activity in these regions. Additionally, the operation of special buses from Bengaluru and other neighboring cities strengthens interstate connectivity, fostering regional economic integration.

Future Plans and Sustainability

The Tamil Nadu Transport Department’s proactive approach to festive travel underscores its commitment to improving public transportation. In recent years, TNSTC has introduced initiatives like cash rewards for online bookings during off-peak days and the integration of digital tools to enhance passenger convenience. The success of the special bus operations during Onam and Milad-un-Nabi could set a precedent for similar arrangements during other major festivals, such as Deepavali and Pongal.

Looking ahead, the department may explore sustainable practices, such as increasing the use of eco-friendly buses or optimizing routes to reduce fuel consumption. These efforts would align with Tamil Nadu’s broader goals of promoting green transportation and reducing the environmental impact of public transit.