Video of students pushing govt bus draws flak

Trichy: A video of school students pushing a stalled govt bus near Tiruvarur on Monday evening has gone viral on social media, sparking criticism over the condition of state-run buses. The bus happened to be one of the several ones ferrying students from various schools to the annual book fair organised by Tiruvarur district administration at Elavangarkudi. While heading back after the fair, one of the buses broke down in the middle of Tiruvarur–Kumbakonam road, a short distance from the venue. Traffic was disrupted and students were left stranded. With no immediate alternative bus or emergency support arriving, the children got off and, together with the conductor, pushed the heavy vehicle to the roadside. A passerby filmed the scene, and the clip quickly spread online.Reactions have been mixed in social media. While some praised the students' unity and helpful spirit, many condemned the poor maintenance of govt buses. A senior TNSTC official told TOI that the bus suffered an electronic snag. "We are holding an inquiry. Staff did not insist the students push the bus. We will ensure that it does not repeat," he said.