TGSRTC to run 2,243 special buses for Maha Shivaratri, 781 to Srisailam

Hyderabad: The Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) will operate 2,243 special buses to 43 prominent Shaivite shrines across the State for the upcoming Maha Shivaratri festival on February 15.

The special services will run from February 14 to 16 to ensure smooth and hassle-free travel for devotees.

The decision was taken to manage the expected heavy rush of pilgrims and provide adequate transport facilities to major temple destinations.

Major destinations covered

Of the total special services:

- 781 buses will operate to Srisailam

- 416 buses to Vemulawada Rajarajeshwara Temple

- 249 buses to Edupayala Temple

- 326 buses to Keesaragutta Temple

- 127 buses to Velala Temple

- 71 buses to Kaleshwaram Temple

Additionally, 273 special buses will be operated to other prominent temples, including Komuravelli Mallanna Temple, Alampur Jogulamba Temple, Umamaheswaram Temple, Palakurthi Someswara Temple and Ramappa Temple.

Special arrangements in Hyderabad

Special buses to Srisailam will be available from major boarding points in Hyderabad, including MGBS, JBS, CBS, IS Sadan, KPHB and BHEL.

TGSRTC is setting up shamianas, seating arrangements, drinking water facilities and public address systems at key bus stations to assist passengers.

Revised ticket fares up to 1.5 times the regular fare

As per the State government’s GO, ticket fares in special buses will be revised up to 1.5 times the regular fare. The revised fares will apply only to special services operated from February 14 to 16.

For buses operating to Edupayala, revised fares will be applicable from February 15 to 17.

There will be no change in fares for regular services.

Display boards will be placed on the front of special buses to help passengers identify them easily.

Free travel for women continues

TGSRTC clarified that free bus travel for women in Palle Velugu, Express, City Ordinary and Metro Express services will continue as per the State government’s scheme.

Women passengers travelling in special buses must obtain zero-value tickets during their journey.

Additional bus services are ready

TGSRTC Vice Chairman and Managing Director Y Nagi Reddy has reviewed the Shivaratri operations with senior officials and directed them to ensure that devotees do not face inconvenience.

The corporation is operating 208 more buses than last year and has instructed field-level officials to deploy additional services depending on passenger demand.

Reservation and helpline

Reservation for special buses from Hyderabad to Srisailam is available on the official website: www.tgsrtcbus.in.

For further information, passengers may contact TGSRTC call centres at: 040-69440000, and 040-23450033.

TGSRTC has assured devotees of comprehensive arrangements to ensure a safe and comfortable journey during the Maha Shivaratri festival.