Remote tribal hamlets get bus connectivity in Erode district

Residents of Ittarai and Thadasalatti, remote tribal hamlets under Thalamalai panchayat in Thalavadi taluk, have welcomed the launch of bus services to their villages from May 21, 2025.

The two villages, located about 8 km off the Dhimbam-Thalavadi Road near Bejalatti, had long remained cut off due to inadequate road infrastructure and the absence of public transport facilities, affecting access to education, healthcare, employment, and other essential services. Schoolchildren and daily commuters were among the worst-affected.

In view of the difficulties faced by the residents, Sathyamangalam-based non-governmental organisation Rights Education and Development Centre (READ) facilitated the formation of Village Development Committees (VDCs) in the hamlets and undertook various community development initiatives. During committee meetings, road access and public transport were identified as key priorities.

Following this, committee members submitted petitions to the District Collector and the Thalavadi branch manager of the Transport Department seeking regular bus connectivity. A new tar road was subsequently laid to improve access to the villages. Officials said sustained efforts by the VDCs and the NGO led to the introduction of the bus service.

Residents said the new service would greatly benefit tribal families, school and college students, senior citizens, and daily wage workers by improving connectivity with nearby towns and ensuring easier access to educational institutions, hospitals, and essential services.