Chennai: More than 15 lakh passengers travelled out of Chennai by govt and private buses and trains between Nov 5 and 7 to their hometowns for Diwali . This included nearly seven lakh passengers who travelled by govt and private buses, while thousands more left in private vehicles.
A Anbalagan, president of the All Omni Bus Owners Association, said operators ran more than 4,717 buses over the three days, carrying over 1.8 lakh passengers. This included 75,900 passengers on Friday, 56,800 on Thursday and 56,000 on Saturday.
At this rate, my family and I may reach Tenkasi only on Diwali afternoon,” said S Rajesh Kumar. I hope I reach home before midnight,” she said. At Kilambakkam, passengers had mixed experiences. others complained of long delays While some managed to book tickets and board buses without prior reservations. “We came early, but buses are arriving at least two hours late. A Ambika appreciated the seating arrangements but feared she would not reach Kerala before midnight. “I have to take a bus to Coimbatore and then another to Kerala. There is still a huge crowd.