Fri Dec 27 19:32:26 UTC 2024: ## Chennai’s Margazhi Music Season Faces Transportation Challenges

**CHENNAI, INDIA (December 28, 2024)** – The annual Margazhi Music Season in Chennai is underway, but road construction related to the Chennai Metro Rail’s Phase II project is causing significant disruptions for attendees and performers. Traffic congestion and detours around areas like Mylapore, Alwarpet, Royapettah, and T. Nagar are making it difficult to reach concert venues, according to residents and organizers.

Several individuals shared their experiences navigating the challenging commute. Radhika Chakravarthi described the difficulties her family faced, while C. R. Balaji stated he avoided attending concerts altogether due to the anticipated traffic. Ranjini Kaushik, founder of SciArtsRUs, highlighted the added challenges for disabled artists participating in the season. Hamsadwani R. Sundar estimated a 10-15% reduction in audience numbers, partly attributed to the transportation issues.

Higher-than-usual flight costs are also impacting international attendees, according to T. Devaki of the Travel Agents Association of India. While flights are full, the increased expense is a deterrent for some. Issai Mazhalai Ramjhi noted a decrease in international audience presence this year but anticipates more arrivals in the coming days. He also pointed out the increased cost of transportation for himself and others due to traffic and longer distances caused by detours.

Despite these challenges, K. Kalyanasundaram of mdnd.in, a ticketing platform for many sabhas, reported a positive outlook on ticket sales. While the initial excitement was slower than previous years, sales surged after December 1st, exceeding last year’s figures by at least 20%. This suggests that despite the transportation difficulties, the overall interest in the music season remains strong.

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