24-01-2026 12:00:00 AM
To address the anticipated surge in devotees for the Medaram Jathara, TGSRTC has deployed 4,000 buses drawn from across all districts and Hyderabad city. These dedicated services will originate from 51 strategic traffic hubs in the former districts of Warangal, Karimnagar, Adilabad, and Khammam, along with Hyderabad. As a result of redirecting these 4,000 RTC buses and additional hired vehicles, everyday bus operations throughout Telangana's districts and Hyderabad will experience reductions from January 25 to February 1. TGSRTC encourages the general public to adjust their travel plans in advance while committing to deliver secure and streamlined transport for festival participants.
The biennial Medaram Jathara, recognized as Asia's largest tribal congregation, is set to take place from January 28 to 31. TGSRTC will initiate special bus operations starting January 25, extending through February 1 to handle the pilgrim rush. In 2024, the Corporation ran 3,491 buses, ferrying 16.82 lakh passengers round-trip. This year, bolstered by the Mahalakshmi Scheme for zero-fare women's travel, an estimated 20 lakh pilgrims are projected to utilize RTC services from January 25 to February 1. Eligible Mahalakshmi travelers will journey free, in accordance with the State Government's initiative.
A sprawling temporary bus station spans 50 acres at Medaram, courtesy of the District Administration. It includes 50 queue lines totaling 9 km, allowing up to 20,000 passengers to board destination-wise efficiently. Temporary shelters covering 1.10 lakh sq. ft. offer waiting zones, crew lounges, and maintenance spaces. Parking facilities across 25.76 acres at Medaram and Kamaram can accommodate around 1,000 buses. For upkeep, 13 departmental goods vehicles, 2 cranes, and 1 tractor are stationed to address minor repairs and breakdowns.
A dedicated team of 10,441 staff—comprising 7,000 drivers, 1,811 conductors, 759 security guards, maintenance personnel, supervisors, and 153 officers—will oversee operations 24/7 at Medaram and the 51 hubs. Patrolling employs 12 jeeps and 8 motorcycles fitted with police-supplied communication tech to curb unauthorized halts and maintain flow. Guides at sensitive spots like narrow culverts and tank bunds (e.g., Gundla vagu, Jalagalancha vagu) will assist navigation. Five motorcycles will patrol the Tadvai-Medaram stretch to prevent congestion and prompt drivers.
A command control center at Medaram, equipped with 76 CCTV cameras, will monitor station traffic continuously. Passenger amenities include ample drinking water taps and toilets via the Rural Water Supply Department, plus a medical camp with ambulances, physicians, and supplies. Collaborative sessions with police and administrations from Mulugu, Warangal, and Hanamkonda districts ensure fluid bus movement from Hanamkonda to Medaram. All assigned personnel have undergone essential training.