Latest news with #MTC
Time of India
6 hours ago
- Time of India
MTC buses run on paper, not on Tambaram roads
Chennai: At 7pm every day, Tambaram West MTC stop is packed with commuters, most of them waiting for 55 series buses to areas such as Mannivakkam, Mudichur, and Vandalur. "I wait nearly 45 minutes every day for a bus to Mudichur. When it finally comes, it is packed to the brim," says Joy Praveena J, an accountant. Sasikala J, a shop keeper in Tambaram, waits patiently in the evenings because she has time. "But in the mornings, I just take a share auto and spend 40 more because the bus never comes when I need it," MTC officials claimed 12 buses are operated from 7pm-8pm daily, but commiters said this is not true. "I've seen a maximum of five, with just one going to Mudichur. Usually, it's just 2-3 overall," said Venkatesh of Pallikaranai. You Can Also Check: Chennai AQI | Weather in Chennai | Bank Holidays in Chennai | Public Holidays in Chennai A TOI visit to the stop at 7pm on June 24 found only three 55 series buses operated in one hour, but MTC data said that 11 services were made. MTC managing director Prabhushankar attributed such mismatches to flaws in the Automatic Vehicle Location System (AVLS) to monitor and reschedule services. "Sometimes the issue is also with local indiscipline. Certain depot managers may not be managing services well." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Knee pain prices might surprise you Knee pain | search ads Find Now Undo Prabhushankar said the Chalo App will soon be replaced by Chennai Intelligent Transport System (CITS), offering real-time bus tracking, GPS integration, and in-bus announcements. MTC now deploys 41 mobile checking squads and plans 1,500 new buses by Dec next year. Road work and metro construction have increased travel time per trip. Drivers may not be able to complete scheduled rounds, said V Rama Rao of Traffic and Transportation Forum, an NGO. MTC says it hired 700 new drivers and 625 conductors on contract and that overall services were up. In June, 43 new services were added at Madhavaram depot, and 9 each in Tambaram and Kilambakkam. It also said the combined daily trip capacity across Madhavaram, Kilambakkam, Tambaram, and Poonamallee depots is 6,892, but only 5,925 trips are currently being run. The near 1,000-trip gap raises questions about service consistency across suburbs.
New Straits Times
3 days ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
T7 Global takes legal steps to secure RM22.9mil from VME Process Systems
KUALA LUMPUR: T7 Global Bhd's unit Tanjung Offshore Services Sdn Bhd (TOS), is stepping up efforts to recover RM22.88 million awarded by the court by going after funds owed to VME Process Systems Malaysia Sdn Bhd and its Singapore-based affiliate. The move comes after the Kuala Lumpur High Court, in a judgment dated July 5, 2024, ruled in favour of TOS in its legal suit against both VME entities. In an update to Bursa Malaysia, T7 Global said that VME has since appealed the decision to the Court of Appeal. The hearing for the appeal has been scheduled for October 21. "In the meantime, TOS has initiated garnishee proceedings to enforce the judgment," the company said in a bourse filing today. TOS filed two garnishee applications, the first on March 19, against Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia Bhd, and the second on June 20, against MTC Engineering Sdn Bhd. The application against Standard Chartered Bank is premised on the belief that VME maintains a bank account with the financial institution. The hearing has been fixed for August 14. As for the application against MTC, TOS is seeking to redirect funds owed by MTC to VME pursuant to a separate High Court case, where VME had successfully sued MTC for unpaid invoices totalling over US$25.6 million related to a terminated contract with Sandakan Offshore (M) Sdn Bhd. The High Court held that MTC's obligation was a direct principal obligation and not a conditional guarantee, making it liable to pay VME directly. "Based on this, TOS is seeking to recover its judgment sum by way of garnishee proceedings against MTC," the company said. TOS's is currently awaiting a sealed notice of application and the case management date for the garnishee action against MTC.
The Hindu
6 days ago
- Business
- The Hindu
CUMTA begins trials for Anna Ride Booking common ticketing app, to be launched by the end of July
The Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA) has begun trials for Anna Ride Booking, a common ticketing mobile app. It is set to be launched by the end of next month. The app provides routes and multiple transport options and their timings for commuting through the city with a single ticket. For instance, if someone were to travel from Valasaravakkam to the airport, then it would show routes featuring a combination of buses, Metro Rail, and autorickshaws. After choosing the current location and a destination, commuters will have to select the transport options and make a payment to generate a QR Code. Chennai Metro Rail, Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) buses, suburban and Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) trains, and Namma Yatri cabs and autorickshaw will be available as options in the app. According to CUMTA officials, trials of the app on MTC buses and Metro Rail have been going on for the past week. 'By the end of July, the app will have the option to select buses, autorickshaws, and Metro Rail. But suburban and MRTS train options will take time to be implemented. The railway gave an initial approval but a memorandum of understanding should be signed. We expect that to be done by August. They may be able to come on board as well,' an official said. CUMTA is currently working with the MTC to get accurate vehicle tracking and timings and incorporate them in the app. 'If people can plan their journey better knowing the timings of buses and trains, they will be able to commute by public transport on time and at half the price, instead of paying for a cab or an autorickshaw for the entire commute,' he added. S. Ramesh of Mogappair, who often travels to Pattabhiram and Chennai Central, said one of the main problems now is that people don't know the exact schedule of MTC buses. 'If this becomes a reality thanks to this app, it will benefit thousands of people. Those new to the city will find it very useful to commute. They probably won't be aware of train schedule or frequencies either. This will help them use public transport to navigate the city,' he added. Though the app should have been ready much earlier this year, it is now finally looking at a launch date.
India.com
21-06-2025
- India.com
Travel Smart: Essential Budget Hacks For Exploring Chennai!
Even though the metropolitan city of Chennai, in Tamil Nadu, is known for its never-ending activities from historic temples and buildings to modern beaches and food courts, it does have the potential to pinch your pockets. But fret not. With adequate planning, you can truly appreciate everything Chennai has to offer without worrying about spending too much. Here are great budget traveling tips that allow you to discover the true essence of Chennai while simultaneously saving a good amount of money. Your Visit During the Off-Season During the winter months, the region from November to February has pleasant weather and is the peak tourist season for Chennai. If you are looking to save a few bucks, you should definitely look into the season between March and October where accommodation and travel costs are significantly lower. All in all, these months are less touristy and more local. Pro Tip: Utilize seasonal discounts for hotels and flights that may be available off-season. Pack Light:Summers can get hot in Chennai so make sure to bring light clothes along with plenty of sunscreen. Festivals:You can also try to plan your trip around other local festivals like Pongal or Navaratri that occur in January and October respectively so that you can indulge in cultural activities. Quick Facts: Chennai Summers reach as high as 40 degree celsius so ensure to stay hydrated. Hotel rates during off-season can go 30 to 50 percent lower than peak season rates. Pongal and other festivals are celebrated with traditional foods, kolams, and much more cultural fanfare. Affordable Accommodation Options You will find plenty of budget accommodation like guest houses, bed and breakfast, or hostels in Chennai. Stays under these categories are usually posted on booking sites such as Airbnb, hostelworld, and makemytrip. Also, quite a few inexpensive hotels provide price cuts for extended visits. Hostels: You can easily find OYO Rooms or FabHotels and other chain hotels that offer cozy and reasonably priced rooms. Budget Hotels: Staying in a house of a local family is not only culturally enriching, but it is usually cheaper than hotels as well. Homestays: Ideal for backpackers and solo travelers looking for inexpensive dorms Quick Facts: In Chennai, hostel dorms are available for as low as 400 INR per night. Budget hotels can cost somewhere between 800 to 1,500 INR a night. A homestay can go for 1,000-2,000 INR a night, most of the time with meals inclusive. Like a Local Chennai's public transport is not only affordable but also efficient and quite vast. Traveling by trains, buses, and share-autos helps you cut costs as compared to hiring a private vehicle or taking a cab. MTC Buses: The Metropolitan Transport Corporation's Bus Service – Almost every area of the city is covered by MTC buses and they are dirt cheap. Suburban Trains: When going to places such as Chengalpattu, Marina Beach, and St. Thomas Mount. Share Autos:The best option for covering short distances within the city when on a budget. Quick Facts: Starting fare for the MTC bus is 5 INR. 10 INR is all that is needed to buy a ticket for a suburban train and travel one way. Traveling share autos cost between INR 20 to 50. Budget-Friendly Food Do not worry if you are on a budget because Chennai is a food lover's dream. Savor the variety of food available including steaming idlis, mouthwatering biryani, crispy dosas, there is a lot to explore that is also light on the pocket. Street Food:Visit the beach and T. Nagar to enjoy sundal, bajji, and freshly cooked parottas from the street food stalls. Messes: Affordable and hearty South Indian meals can be enjoyed at Ratna Cafe and Murugan Idli Shop. Lunch Buffets: Some eateries provide low-priced lunch buffets which is great for trying out several cuisines at once. Quick Facts: At neighborhood cafes, every plate of idli-sambar sells for approximately 30-50 INR. Cheap restaurants serve full South Indian meals ( thali) for 100 – 200 INR. The prices of street food sundal and bajji are 20 -50 INR. Free and Low-Cost Attractions There are a lot of free or inexpensive places to visit in Chennai. It's perfect for temples, museums, and beach lovers. Beaches: Head to Marina Beach, as well as the second longest city beach in the world, or Elliot's Beach to unwind and enjoy. Temples:India boasts of stunning temples that define the culture, and the Kapaleeswarar and Parthasarathy temples in Chennai are no exception. It's a free site so don't forget to visit. Museums and Parks: Some budget friendly places to visit include the Government Museum as well as Semmozhi Poonga which charge a small fee. Quick Facts: Elliot's and Marina Beaches can be accessed for free Indian citizens only need to pay INR 15 to enter the museum. Children under 12 can enter Semmozhi Poonga for INR 10 and adults only need to pay 15. Smart Chennai's active street bazaars and markets are great for those looking to shop on a budget. With the proper knowledge, silk sarees, jewelry, and other souvenirs are sold at reasonable prices. T. Nagar: Best spot to find sarees, jewelries and other accessories at affordable Pondy Bazaar: A budgeted fashionista's paradise for clothes, bags and even shoes. George Town: Great for wholesale fabric shopping and other knick-knacks. Pro Tip:Always negotiate prices at street markets. Quick Facts: Kurtas and cotton dresses start from 300 – 500 rupees. You can find handmade jewelry for as cheap as 100 to 200 rupees. At T. Nagar, silk sarees are available starting from 1,000 rupees. on Souvenirs and Experiences You can spend less and still enjoy the true culture of the city by choosing souvenirs that are unique and inexpensive. Artisan Crafts: Terracotta jewelry, Tanjore Paintings, and pottery are things to look out for. Music and Dance: Attend free events or workshops for classical dance and music during the Margazhi festival (December-January). Local Snacks: Murukku, banana chips, and Mysore pak are some of the treats you can enjoy while in the city. Quick Facts: Terracotta Jewelry sets: INR 200-500. Entry to cultural performances during Margazhi is often free. Local Snacks: Between 50-100 per packet. Wrapping Up Chennai is a premier city for budget travelers due to its wonderful culture, welcoming vibe, and the delicious food. So long as you plan your trip wisely by reserving the flight ahead of time, utilizing buses and trains to get around the city, and eating and shopping in reasonably priced places, you will enjoy everything that the city has to offer without breaking the bank. What are you waiting for, pack your bags and go on an adventure of a lifetime to Chennai!
New Paper
17-06-2025
- Sport
- New Paper
Nunes leaves Australia, but vows to come back
Former five-time Singapore champion jockey Manoel Nunes is on the move again. Eight months after taking his saddle to Adelaide following the closure of Singapore racing on Oct 5, the Brazilian ace is being lured back to a country where he once ruled the roost - Mauritius. One of the leading stables on the racing-mad Indian Ocean island rolled out the red carpet to the 2019 Mauritius champion jockey last week, after talks with two Australian jockeys who are no stranger to Kranji fell through, Noel Callow and Daniel Moor. Nunes thought long and hard about the offer from the Gujadhur family as the racing experience in his new Adelaide base has overall been enjoyable, even if the wins have tapered off recently. With 26 wins (including two at a trial to test the waters in August) from 200 rides since his debut at Murray Bridge on Oct 12, the 49-year-old sits in seventh place on South Australia's metropolitan log, a fair gap off the premiership-battling duo of Rochelle Milnes (41) and Taylor Johnstone (39). On the other hand, Nunes was a household name in Mauritius, treated like Hollywood celebrity wherever he went, but at the same time, its horse racing has since lost its lustre. It had been at the crossroads after Covid-19 struck in 2020, and the Mauritius Turf Club (MTC) was eventually ousted under controversial circumstances in the last two years. It has been claimed that the newly created organiser had close links with the previous government. Following the return to power of the MTC-friendly Labour party and its coalition allies after a landslide victory over the old regime at the last general election in November, the MTC was soon restored into their Champ de Mars home. No doubt, the pro-MTC Gujadhurs' comeback after a self-imposed hiatus during the club switch also injects renewed hope into a beleaguered industry looking for a fresh reboot on July 26. The Gujadhurs' purchase of 20 quality South African-breds aimed at the elite races was the carrot dangled to Nunes, but doubtfully juicy enough against the substantially more lucrative prize money in Australia. But, if Nunes' Australian stint had one flip side of the coin that could sway him, it was the winter months, even if Mauritius got the nod not just for its warmer climate. "It's now winter in Australia, and I just hate the cold. Don't get me wrong, I love my beach house in Glenelg, but it's tough with the dropping temperatures," he said. "But I'm going to ride for the Gujadhur stable mainly because it's an honour to wear their famous blue and red sash silks. The season is only five months long until December. "My Australian visa is long-term. So it means I can still come back here to ride after the Mauritius season is over." Nunes, who boasts more than 2,200 winners ridden all around the world in Brazil, Argentina, Macau, Singapore, Mauritius, South Korea, Dubai and Australia, would be loath to burn the bridges with the latter. "It wasn't an easy decision to make. I really enjoy Australian racing, especially here in Adelaide," said Nunes, who also spent one week in Perth in December riding one winner. "I can't thank Racing SA's (South Australia) former CEO (chief executive officer) Vaughn Lynch and their new No. 1 Nick Bawden enough. They helped me a lot when I applied for my jockey's licence and work permit for Australia. "I also have to mention the Singapore trainers who gave me solid references. Without them, I couldn't have made it. "And, of course, a big thank you to trainer Michael Hickmott who was the first to sponsor me in Adelaide, and (retired ex-Kranji jockey) Barend Vorster and his wife Nikki for their friendship and helping me settle in so quickly. "The jockeys have also been friendly, like Jake Toeroek, Jason Holder and Todd Pannell. But there are too many names to mention, and I don't want to leave anybody out. "This is not farewell, though. I'll definitely come back to Australia." In May, whispers of an exit began to swirl after his main supporter, Kranji owner Mansoor Gandhi, moved his team of five ex-Singapore horses from Angaston trainers Aaron Bain and Ned Taylor to Perth. The exodus included Bakeel, who won three races in a row in South Australia. A drop in rides - not to mention winners - also fuelled those rumours, but Nunes refuted the suggestions. He had simply fallen foul to kidney stones during a short trip in Singapore to visit his girlfriend, and was on the sidelines for treatment. Once he recovered, he returned a winner at Murray Bridge on May 24, aboard Great Maximus for trainers Richard and Chantelle Jolly. The visits to the winner's circle have, however, again dried up since, something he puts down to the big stables being tied down to their stable riders. "The top trainers already have their own jockeys, and it's hard to chase for the better rides," he said. "Still, I have good support all round, and some trainers have already texted me to say how they would miss me when I leave." Nunes' last Australian meeting will be at Morphettville on June 28. He then flies to Mauritius on July 4. manyan@
