Deepavali Travel Rush: Coimbatore to Operate 2,675 Special Buses
To ease festive travel ahead of Deepavali, the Tamil Nadu State Transport Department has announced 2,675 special buses from October 17 to 20, 2025, departing from Coimbatore to various parts of the state.
This major initiative aims to manage the high passenger volume expected during the festival season, ensuring smoother and safer travel for all.
According to the Coimbatore District Transport Office, special bus services will operate from multiple depots, including Singanallur, Gandhipuram, Ukkadam, and Mettupalayam, covering destinations across Tamil Nadu.
Bus Operations from Major Terminals
1. Singanallur Bus Stand:
Buses from Singanallur will depart to Madurai, Theni, Dindigul, and southern districts. This terminal will handle a large portion of inter-district services catering to families returning home for the festive celebrations.
2. Gandhipuram Bus Stand:
From Gandhipuram, buses will head to Erode, Salem, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Namakkal, and Karur.
The route is expected to be one of the busiest due to the concentration of textile workers and students returning home.
3. Mettupalayam New Bus Stand:
Additional buses will depart from the Mettupalayam bus stand to Ooty, Coonoor, and Kotagiri, ensuring travelers heading to hill stations for the holidays have convenient options.
4. Ukkadam Bus Stand:
From Ukkadam, buses will leave for Pollachi, Udumalpet, Palani, and Bangalore, catering to both short-distance and interstate travelers.
Additional Bus Arrangements
To avoid congestion within the city, the transport department has made special arrangements:
- Temporary parking and waiting areas have been established at Ondipudur, Eachanari, and Sulur.
- Special counters will be opened for advance reservations.
- Online ticket booking through TNSTC and SETC official websites and mobile apps is available to prevent long queues.
Officials have also announced that return buses will be arranged after Deepavali, starting from October 21 to 23, 2025, for those returning to Coimbatore and nearby districts after the celebrations.
Coordination and Safety Measures
To manage the high volume of passengers efficiently, the Coimbatore Regional Transport Office (RTO), Traffic Police, and State Express Transport Corporation (SETC) are coordinating to maintain order at all major bus stands.
Fire safety equipment, medical aid facilities, and drinking water stations are being set up to ensure commuter safety and comfort.
Officials urge passengers to arrive early and use authorized booking channels to avoid last-minute rush and ticket fraud.
Schedule Overview
- Festival Travel Dates: October 17–20, 2025
- Return Services: October 21–23, 2025
- Total Special Buses: 2,675
- Major Routes: Madurai, Dindigul, Theni, Erode, Salem, Dharmapuri, Namakkal, Ooty, Bangalore
Public Response
Passengers have welcomed the announcement, expressing relief that additional buses will help them travel comfortably during the Deepavali holidays. Many have also appreciated the online booking facility, which eliminates the hassle of standing in long lines at bus depots.
Local officials expect over two lakh passengers to travel from Coimbatore during the four-day period, marking one of the busiest travel weekends of the year.
Transport Officials’ Statement
A senior transport official stated:
“Every year, Coimbatore experiences a surge in passenger traffic during the Deepavali season. To handle this, we’ve deployed extra buses and extended staff duty hours. We aim for a safe, smooth, and timely travel experience for everyone.”
Travel Tips for Passengers
- Book tickets early via tnstc.in or SETC app.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
- Carry valid ID proof for reserved tickets.
- Avoid unauthorized agents.
- Follow staff instructions and queue regulations.
Conclusion
The announcement of 2,675 Deepavali Special Buses from Coimbatore reflects the Tamil Nadu government’s commitment to supporting citizens during festival travel peaks. With coordinated logistics and improved safety protocols, passengers can look forward to a hassle-free Deepavali journey this year.
