Will Telangana RTC Operate 3,495 Special Buses for Medaram Jatara?
Synopsis
As the Sammakka-Sarakka Maha Jatara approaches, the Telangana RTC plans to run 3,495 special buses to accommodate millions of devotees. This biennial event, celebrated in Medaram, is not merely a festival but a significant cultural symbol for Telangana. The preparations include increased medical facilities and substantial government funding.
Key Takeaways
TSRTC will operate 3,495 special buses .
Extra fare of 50% for special services.
Women can travel for free under the Mahalakshmi Scheme .
Health facilities include a 50-bed hospital and 30 medical camps .
Government allocated ₹260 crore for the event.
Hyderabad, Jan 13 (NationPress) The Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) announced on Tuesday that it will run 3,495 special buses for the forthcoming Sammakka-Sarakka Maha Jatara.
This state-operated corporation indicated that it will impose a 50 percent additional fare for these special services. Moreover, it is prepared to deploy more buses if required.
According to TGSRTC, it has the discretion to levy extra charges for special transport services during festivals, fairs, and other celebrations.
The special buses will serve areas from the undivided Karimnagar, Warangal, and Adilabad districts, along with multiple other locations in the state.
Additionally, under the Mahalakshmi Scheme, women can ride for free on special buses, although this offer is limited to ordinary and express bus categories.
With millions of devotees anticipated to join the Sammakka-Sarakka Maha Jatara, this biennial occasion is scheduled to take place at Medaram in Mulugu district from January 28 to 31.
Commonly referred to as Medaram Jatra, it is hailed as the most vital tribal festival in Asia.
In the meantime, Minister for Women and Child Welfare Seethakka, Minister for Tribal Welfare Adluri Lakshman, and Chief Secretary Ramakrishna Rao reviewed the preparations for the Jatara during a meeting at the State Secretariat on Tuesday.
Senior officials from various departments and the Mulugu district Collector were present at the meeting.
The health department is setting up a 50-bed hospital at Medaram, along with two mini hospitals and 30 medical camps.
Previously, Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka stated that all necessary arrangements for the Jatara would be finalized by January 15.
He mentioned that permanent structures are being built to showcase the cultural richness of the festival and ensure a seamless experience for devotees.
The state government has allocated ₹260 crore for this year’s Jatara, with ₹150 crore dedicated to event preparations and ₹110 crore for permanent temple infrastructure.
He emphasized that this festival transcends a mere tribal celebration; it represents the heartbeat of Telangana and a symbol of its self-respect.
Point of View
The Sammakka-Sarakka Maha Jatara represents not only a significant tribal celebration but also a crucial element of Telangana’s identity and cultural heritage. Its preparations reflect the state's commitment to ensuring a smooth experience for millions of participants, showcasing its dedication to preserving tradition while accommodating modern needs.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sammakka-Sarakka Maha Jatara?
The Sammakka-Sarakka Maha Jatara is a biennial tribal festival celebrated in Medaram, Telangana, attracting millions of devotees who honor the Goddesses Sammakka and Sarakka.
How many special buses will TSRTC operate for the Jatara?
The Telangana State Road Transport Corporation will operate 3,495 special buses for the Sammakka-Sarakka Maha Jatara.
Will there be any additional charges for these special buses?
Yes, TSRTC will charge a 50 percent extra fare for the special bus services during the festival.
Are women allowed to travel for free?
Under the Mahalakshmi Scheme, women can travel for free on special buses, but this only applies to ordinary and express categories.
What preparations are being made for health facilities during the Jatara?
The health department is establishing a 50-bed hospital, along with two mini hospitals and 30 medical camps at Medaram.
