Private buses plying the roads in Tiruchi city.

| Photo Credit: M. MOORTHY

Rash driving and overspeeding by private buses continue to pose a serious threat to commuters and pedestrians in Tiruchi, thanks to stiff competition among operators.Despite the permitted speed limit of 30 kmph to 40 kmph within city limits, many private buses continue to flout the rules, raising concerns over passenger safety. Commuters allege that private bus operators frequently overspeed to reach bus stops and bus stands ahead of competitors to pick up more passengers, often resorting to dangerous overtaking, excessive honking, and violations of lane discipline.Several major roads in Tiruchi have witnessed repeated complaints of reckless driving by private buses despite regular enforcement by the traffic police. Among the stretches frequently cited are TVS Tollgate–Mannarpuram–Panjapur, Bharathiyar Salai, Salai Road, Karur Bypass Road, Singarathope, Palakkarai, and roads leading to Chathiram Bus Stand, particularly those passing through school and college zones.On Sunday, for instance, a speeding private bus, while attempting to overtake a Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) bus on Tiruchi–Madurai National Highway between Mannarpuram and Panjapur, struck the government vehicle on the side. Under the impact, the side mirrors of the TNSTC bus was damaged and traffic briefly disrupted.In a bid to curb overspeeding and reduce accidents, the traffic police have deployed speed radar guns at key locations across the city. Police personnel regularly monitor vehicle speeds and impose penalties on drivers found violating speed limits. However, commuters say the measures have not been sufficient to deter private bus operators from engaging in dangerous driving practices.Road safety activist N. Saravanan says the authorities should take measures to strengthen monitoring, enforce speed limits, and ensure strict action against repeat offenders. “Sign boards indicating the speed limit should be installed across the city, and regular meetings should be conducted for drivers and conductors to promote safe driving practices.”When contacted, a senior traffic police official said that enforcement drives would be conducted against private buses involved in overspeeding and use of air horns. Strict penalties would be imposed on drivers found violating traffic regulations. Published - July 28, 2026 07:21 pm IST