TNSTC revives bus service for farmers after deputy CM's directive
Theni: Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) has started operating buses from various areas in Theni district to the 'Uzhavar Sandhai' for farmers to transport their produce free of cost.
The move comes after deputy chief minister Udhayanidhi Stalin issued instructions to revive bus services, following an appeal made by farmers in Theni district on Monday.
Udhayanidhi was in Theni on Monday to chair a review meeting with various departments regarding developmental works and the implementation of govt schemes. During the meeting, he urged officials to speed up all works concerning the welfare of the public and to act as a bridge between the state govt and the common people.
He also distributed welfare aid worth 13.49 crore to 851 beneficiaries, including house pattas worth 2.96 crore to 578 beneficiaries, and other assistance.
During the meeting, a group of farmers submitted a petition to him seeking his help in resuming govt bus service to 'Uzhavar Sandhai' for transporting their fruits and vegetables on a daily basis. The farmers pointed out that earlier govt buses were being operated for farmers, and they were able to transport their produce without charges for the load.
However, these services stopped during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Taking note of the issue faced by the farmers, Udhayanidhi directed TNSTC to operate buses to 'Uzhavar Sandhai'. In its inaugural run, the bus ran via Periyakulam, Jeyamangalam, Pinnathevanpatti, Sokkathevanpatti, and Annanchi to reach the 'Uzhavar Sandhai'. On Tuesday, the bus will also run from Mayiladumparai, Kadamalaikundu, and Nagalapuram to reach 'Uzhavar Sandhai'.
Later, the deputy CM inspected the facilities at the govt students' hostel run by the backward classes, most backward classes and minorities welfare department, at Aathankaraipatti near Periyakulam. He interacted with the students at the hostel and instructed the staff to ensure proper maintenance and work for students' welfare and upliftment.
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