Pvt buses to ease weekend, festival rush at KCBT

IN response to commuter protests over bus shortages during extended holidays and weekends, the Tamil Nadu transport department has decided to induct private buses on a Gross Cost Contract (GCC) basis.

- B ANBUSELVAN @ Chennai

These buses will be stationed at the Kalaignar Centenary Bus Terminus (KCBT), Kilambakkam, to handle last-minute rush to key destinations.

Under the arrangement, the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) in Salem and Villupuram will hire private buses on an 11-month contract, primarily to serve passengers on weekends, long holidays, and other peak-demand days. Private operators will provide buses and drivers and bear maintenance costs, while conductors from TNSTC will collect fares fixed by the government. Operators will be compensated monthly.