Govt. college students stage road blockade near Sholinghur demanding better amenities, frequent bus services

Students of Government Arts and Science College at Mel Venkatapuram village near Sholinghur town in Ranipet blocked the Sholinghur-Arakkonam Main Road on Thursday, demanding better civic amenities on the campus and additional bus services from Sholinghur town to the campus.

Students said the college has been a lifeline for hundreds of students in at least 15 surrounding villages between the towns of Sholingur and Arakkonam, a distance of around 30 km. “Most of the buses do not halt near the campus. Students have to walk at least 500 metres to reach the campus. Many times, students have to miss the first hour of the classes,” said a student.

At present, buses operated between Sholingur and Arakkonam towns halt near the college campus. These government buses run only a few trips on the route, and most buses are overcrowded during the rush hour. As a result, commuters, mostly women students, have to wait at least an hour for the next bus to board to college every day.

Students also complained about rash driving, especially by two-wheelers, on the stretch. It results in regular accidents, including fatalities. Students often form small groups to prevent getting hit by speeding vehicles while crossing the stretch. “Speed breakers with zebra crossings and reflectors will help students to cross the stretch and board buses safely,” said another student.

On campus, students said that government educational institutions lack basic amenities like drinking water, clean washrooms, a canteen, and a playground. In fact, the college campus lacks a compound wall to protect buildings and classroom benches from vandalism.

As the students blocked the stretch, local police and revenue officials rushed to the spot and pacified agitated students. They dispersed peacefully after officials assured them that District Collector Priya Ravichandran would be apprised about their demands.