Madurai: Passengers heading to bus termini hoping to secure a last-minute seat on a long-distance government bus may soon have fewer options. Transport minister Tamilan Parthiban has directed officials to bring all long-distance government bus services under online booking and work towards zero unreserved seats, according to an official release. The move covers more than 1,000 air-conditioned, sleeper and semi-sleeper services operated by the State Express Transport Corporation (SETC).
Digital Push for Reservations
The minister also asked transport corporations to promote ticket reservations through mobile applications, websites and other digital platforms. A SETC official said advance reservation data would help corporations assess demand and deploy buses on routes witnessing higher passenger traffic.
“Earlier, demand spikes were largely limited to festival seasons. We are now seeing similar surges during extended weekends as well,” the official said.
Reducing Crowding at Termini
Officials said the shift could also reduce crowding and confusion at major bus termini, including Kilambakkam in Chennai, where passengers have held protests over bus shortages during peak travel periods. The focus of the new initiative is on increasing advance reservations in SETC’s 2x2 and sleeper category services.
The department, however, clarified that unreserved travel would continue on mofussil services operated by Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) units such as Madurai, Coimbatore and Kumbakonam. These buses connect Chennai with other parts of the state and largely operate with ordinary 3x2 seating arrangements.
Technology Upgrades Planned
“During the review meeting on Monday, the minister directed officials to promote the Chennai One App, introduce voice-command facilities for online ticket booking and develop an application that provides real-time information on bus arrival timings and seat availability,” a senior transport department official said.
The meeting also discussed depot upgrades, infrastructure improvements, uninterrupted bus operations during festivals and weekends, maintenance of air-conditioned buses, and measures to improve food quality at route-side restaurants through field inspections.
This initiative aims to modernize the state's bus transport system, making it more efficient and passenger-friendly. By leveraging digital tools, the government hopes to better manage demand, reduce chaos at bus stands, and enhance the overall travel experience for commuters.
