
Fri Jan 02 15:06:00 UTC 2026: Summary:
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin visited Tiruchi on January 2, 2026, to inaugurate the “Samathuva Nadaipayanam” (Equality Walk) of MDMK general secretary Vaiko. His visit caused significant traffic disruptions in Tiruchi, particularly during the morning peak hours. Commuters experienced delays and overcrowding on buses due to traffic jams and route diversions, although a TNSTC official denied any disruptions in scheduled services.
News Article:
Stalin Visit Causes Traffic Snarls in Tiruchi
Tiruchi, India – January 2, 2026 – Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s visit to Tiruchi today to flag off MDMK general secretary Vaiko’s “Samathuva Nadaipayanam” (Equality Walk) resulted in significant traffic congestion across the city.
The Chief Minister received a warm reception from DMK cadres and the public as his convoy made its way from Tiruchi airport to the Uzhavar Sandhai grounds at Thennur Anna Nagar. The slow movement of the convoy led to traffic jams in areas like Palakkarai, Thennur flyover, Puthur, and near the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital (MGMGH), causing delays for commuters during the morning rush hour.
“I was stranded for over 45 minutes,” said R. Kamaraj, an autorickshaw driver, highlighting the widespread disruption.
Commuters also reported overcrowded buses and limited availability of Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) services between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. However, a TNSTC official claimed that scheduled services were operating on time, attributing route deviations to private buses.
The visit highlights the challenges of balancing political events with the daily needs of citizens, particularly in densely populated urban areas.