Over 14 lakh people left the city by bus, trains to celebrate Pongal in their natives

Over 14 lakh people have left the city by buses—both government and private omni buses—and trains from Chennai and adjoining areas since last Friday to travel home to celebrate Pongal. This is in addition to a large number of people who travelled by personal vehicles such as cars and two-wheelers.

Transport officials said the movement of people began on Friday, with many opting to travel early to avoid traffic congestion and commuting difficulties. As a result, traffic flow on the GST Road remained largely smooth.

Sources said approximately seven lakh people travelled by government buses till Tuesday, while 2.72 lakh people used omni buses from the city. About five lakh passengers travelled by trains over the weekend.

During the late hours of Tuesday, traffic congestion was witnessed near the Kilambakkam bus stand and surrounding areas on GST Road. Similar congestion was reported in Tambaram, Vandalur, and Chengalpattu.

A senior officer of the Tambaram City Police said, “We have ensured special bandobust arrangements to regulate traffic and ensure smooth flow. On Tuesday evening, there was not much traffic congestion compared to previous years. We are closely monitoring the situation on Wednesday as more people are likely to travel on public roads.”