Pawan Kalyan Pushes for Revival of Palani-Tirupati Bus Service and Daily Train Link
Andhra Pradesh’s Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has made a commitment to revive the Palani-Tirupati bus service that was halted during the Covid-19 pandemic. The service, which connects two of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Southern India, had been a vital link for devotees, but its suspension during the pandemic has left many stranded without direct transport options between Palani and Tirupati.
Addressing the media after his visit to the Palani Murugan Temple, Kalyan expressed his intention to take immediate action to restore the bus service. He assured that he would raise the matter with the Andhra Pradesh transport authorities, with a view to resuming operations as soon as possible. In addition to the revival of the bus service, Kalyan also spoke about plans to request the introduction of a daily train service connecting the two cities, which would further ease travel for thousands of pilgrims who make the journey regularly. The need for better transport links between these pilgrimage hubs has long been felt by devotees who travel to Palani, a temple town in Tamil Nadu, and Tirupati, home to the world-famous Venkateswara Temple. The spiritual journey to these temples is of great significance for millions of people, and ensuring easy access through public transportation is essential for their comfort and safety.
Kalyan’s efforts are expected to provide much-needed relief to the devotees, who often face challenges when trying to navigate between these destinations, especially considering the limited public transport options available. His promise to take up the issue with the concerned authorities in Andhra Pradesh and appeal to the Centre for a direct train service is a step towards addressing the travel difficulties faced by thousands of people who undertake this spiritual journey. Kalyan also spoke emotionally about his spiritual journey, emphasising his commitment to the welfare of the nation. During his visit to the Palani Murugan Temple, he shared, “I always pray for the well-being of the nation and its people. Today, I sought the blessings of Palani Murugan for the prosperity of the country.” This sentiment reflects his deep connection with the spiritual significance of both Palani and Tirupati and his ongoing efforts to serve the needs of the public.
In addition to his plans for improving transport infrastructure, Kalyan also mentioned his intention to set up a Tirupati darshan ticket booking information centre in Palani. This initiative would provide pilgrims with a more organised and accessible way to plan their visit to Tirupati, enhancing the overall experience and facilitating easier access to darshan tickets. For pilgrims who regularly travel between these two sacred destinations, Kalyan’s announcement brings a sense of hope. An elderly devotee, A. Ramesh, who frequently travels from Tirupati to Palani, shared his excitement about the revival of the bus service. “This bus service was a lifeline for many of us, especially for senior citizens. The journey was comfortable and affordable. I hope it will be restored soon,” he said.
Another frequent traveller, Priya Sharma, from Chennai, highlighted the challenges of planning a trip to both locations. “Having a direct train would be amazing. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about the peace of mind that comes with knowing you can travel without hassle,” she noted. Pawan Kalyan’s efforts to revive the Palani-Tirupati bus service and introduce a daily train connection are a much-needed step towards improving infrastructure for pilgrims. These developments will not only make the journey more accessible but will also foster greater connectivity between two of South India’s most important spiritual destinations. The proposed plans highlight the commitment of the Andhra Pradesh government to improve the welfare of its citizens and provide better transport solutions for the people who contribute to the cultural and spiritual fabric of the region.
