Great Response to Srivari Dharma Rathams in Tirumala

TIRUMALA, FEBRUARY 28, 2026:  The Srivari Dharma Ratha (free bus services) being operated by TTD for the convenience of a multitude of pilgrims within Tirumala have been receiving an overwhelming response following the installation of Digital Display Boards at bus stops.

With real-time information on bus arrival timings available through these digital boards, waiting time has reduced significantly, encouraging pilgrims to make wider use of the TTD free transport services. This initiative stands as the first-of-its-kind technological intervention among major spiritual destinations in the country, providing pilgrims with real-time bus information.

At present, a total of 12 modern electric buses are operating in Tirumala under this service. On average, about 300 trips are being operated every day, with each trip covering approximately 6.5 km.

Safe Travel for About 60,000 Pilgrims Every Day

With digital display boards providing real-time information on bus locations and arrival times, the number of users has increased substantially. Around 60,000 pilgrims are safely availing the free bus services every day, ensuring comfortable and hassle-free travel within Tirumala, reaching their desirable destinations.

Decline in Private Taxi Usage – Increase in Public Transport Patronage

Earlier, due to the lack of information on bus arrival timings, pilgrims were compelled to opt for private taxis, often being charged exorbitant fares.

Recognising this issue, the TTD Additional EO Sri Ch. Venkaiah Chowdary took a special initiative to install Digital Display Boards at 20 bus stops in Tirumala to provide real-time bus arrival information.

Hyderabad-based B.S. Technotronics Private Limited donated the Digital Display Boards, while Olectra Greentech Limited is providing technical support.

Since the implementation of this system, pilgrims arriving at bus stops are able to know the exact arrival time of buses, which is within 10 minutes in most cases. As a result, pilgrims are increasingly preferring the free bus services. Devotees have expressed their immense happiness over this user-friendly facility introduced for their convenience.

Environmental Protection through Reduced Fuel Consumption

The use of electric buses has led to a reduction in fuel consumption and is also contributing to pollution control. This initiative supports TTD’s one of the prime objectives of promoting a robust public transport system, reducing vehicular congestion in Tirumala, and providing pilgrims with an eco-friendly and comfortable mode of transport.

TTD is planning to further expand this initiative in the coming days.

Additional 20 Night Trips for Pilgrims’ Convenience

Currently, these electric buses are operating 120 trips each from 5am to 1pm, 1pm to 9pm and 60 trips between 9 pm and 5 am. Keeping in view the convenience of pilgrims, TTD is planning to add 20 more trips during night hours soon. Similarly, in the coming days, depending on the pilgrim rush, officials are taking steps to introduce more electric buses to further strengthen the free transport services