As the joyous harvest festival of Pongal approaches, Tamil Nadu is rolling out the welcome mat for thousands of travelers eager to reunite with their families. In an impressive logistical effort that showcases the state's dedication to keeping communities connected, the Transport department will operate more than 34,000 buses across Tamil Nadu, ensuring no one misses out on celebrating this special occasion.

Transport Minister S.S. Sivasankar shared the exciting details at a press conference, revealing that the special bus services will run from January 9 through January 14, leading up to the Pongal celebration on January 15. What makes this initiative even more thoughtful is the provision of over 25,000 buses for return journeys, ensuring families can travel back safely and conveniently after their celebrations.

Chennai, the bustling capital city, will serve as a major hub with an remarkable 22,796 buses departing to various destinations throughout the state. More than 10,000 of these will be special buses added specifically to accommodate the festival rush. The three well-equipped bus termini at Kilambakkam, Koyambedu, and Madhavaram will buzz with activity as travelers embark on their journeys home.

The department has thoughtfully organized the operations to make travel as smooth as possible. The modern Kilambakkam terminus will serve as the departure point for those heading to popular southern destinations including Puducherry, Cuddalore, Tiruchi, Madurai, Thirunelveli, Coimbatore, and Thanjavur. Travelers bound for scenic destinations like Vandavasi and Tiruvannamalai can conveniently board from the Metropolitan Transport Corporation wing at Kilambakkam.

For those journeying to Andhra Pradesh through Ponneri and Uthukottai, the Madhavaram terminus stands ready to welcome them. This terminal will also accommodate passengers heading to Tiruchi, Kumbakonam, and Salem. Meanwhile, the Dr. M.G.R. bus terminus at Koyambedu will serve travelers to East Coast Road destinations, Kancheepuram, Thiruttani, and those making their way to Bengaluru via Vellore.

The celebration doesn't end with the festival day. Recognizing that families will need time to savor their reunions, return bus services will commence on January 16 and continue through January 19, giving everyone ample time to create beautiful memories before heading back.

In a wonderful gesture of passenger care, the Transport department has established help desks at multiple locations and launched a dedicated toll-free helpline at 18004256151. This service ensures travelers can report any concerns about private bus operators, particularly regarding fare practices, giving everyone peace of mind during their journey.

This massive undertaking reflects Tamil Nadu's commitment to preserving the beautiful tradition of families coming together during Pongal. By making travel accessible, affordable, and convenient, the state is helping create countless precious moments as people gather to prepare sweet Pongal, decorate their homes, and celebrate the harvest season surrounded by the warmth of family and friends.