Is Chennai Corporation Expanding Free Bus Service for School Students?

Chennai, June 19 (NationPress) Energized by the success of its pilot program, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) plans to widen its complimentary bus service for school children, with the aim of ensuring safe and convenient transportation for a greater number of students attending corporation-operated schools.

On Thursday, Deputy Mayor M. Magesh Kumaar made the announcement, revealing that the current service, which assists 373 students via four dedicated buses, will be expanded in the forthcoming months.

This initiative, inaugurated by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, has garnered significant support from parents and the educational community.

“Given the pilot project's success, we have instructed the education officer to gather data on students needing these services, particularly those commuting from suburban and remote areas,” shared the Deputy Mayor.

He added, “Using this information, we will enhance the service to include more schools and students.”

The current fleet of buses serves students from selected GCC schools, with each bus staffed by dedicated security personnel to ensure student safety during transit.

Deputy Mayor Kumaar emphasized the tremendous appreciation from parents, who view this service as an essential enhancement to public education.

“We are receiving heartfelt feedback from families. This initiative is restoring confidence in corporation schools, making them a viable alternative to private institutions,” he remarked.

The timing of this expansion coincides with a significant increase in student admissions.

The Deputy Mayor disclosed that over 22,000 new students have enrolled in GCC schools for the ongoing academic year, reflecting growing trust in the public education system.

He attributed this progress to the leadership of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, who have driven reforms and improved infrastructure in city schools.

With an investment of Rs 1.11 crore, the dedicated bus service will also facilitate educational tours, inter-school competitions, and sports events, fostering the holistic development of students.

The Corporation stressed its commitment to providing equitable access to quality education through safe and reliable transportation options.

With plans underway to broaden the service's reach, the GCC aims to eliminate transportation barriers that often hinder underprivileged children from attending school regularly, furthering its mission to strengthen public education in Chennai.