Residents of hill villages in Krishnagiri district have flagged the continued absence of government bus services, saying daily life remains difficult even decades after Independence. The issue is being highlighted from Kesthur village near the Tamil Nadu–Karnataka border, about 4 km from Megadatu.
Kesthur, under the Manjukondapalli panchayat, is surrounded by around 15 small hamlets with an estimated 8,000 residents. A tar road has been laid by the state from Urigam to Kesthur for about 24 km, but villagers say no government bus operates on the route.
With no bus connectivity, residents say they transport agricultural produce using animals such as horses and donkeys. They add that a government bus service would benefit more than 15 hamlets and improve access to markets and essential services.
Education has also been affected, locals say. While a panchayat union middle school functions in Manjukondapalli, students must travel to Urigam or Anchetti for higher secondary education. Villagers claim the lack of buses contributes to school dropouts and early marriages among girls.
Residents also point to difficulties in reaching jobs and medical care. Though a ‘108’ bike ambulance service has been provided, they allege it does not function regularly. A petition seeking bus services was sent to the Chief Minister, and officials reportedly acknowledged receipt in June. While efforts are under way to run a private mini-bus, villagers insist they need a government bus service between Urigam and Kesthur.
