Bus services between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka were halted at the Hosur border as a precautionary step before protests related to the Cauvery water conflict. This decision inconvenienced travelers heading to Bengaluru and other parts of Karnataka. State buses from Tamil Nadu were stopped at Hosur, while Karnataka-bound buses from Tamil Nadu were unaffected.
The suspension led to disruptions, with passengers needing to find alternative travel arrangements. Many commuters traveling from Hosur to Bengaluru had to take local buses to the border, then hire autorickshaws to cross into Karnataka before continuing their journey. Despite the bus suspension, private vehicles and goods carriers were allowed to cross the border without hindrance.
Although there were delays and extra expenses for passengers, vehicular traffic on the National Highway was mostly normal, with increased police checks near the border. Security was heightened at the Hosur-Attibele border and other key locations to maintain peace during the expected protests by Kannada groups.
The recent disruption is linked to the longstanding Cauvery water-sharing issue between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, reignited by Karnataka’s plan to build a reservoir at Mekedatu. Tamil Nadu opposes this project, fearing it could impact its water share and breach existing water-sharing agreements. Farmers’ groups in Tamil Nadu have protested against the reservoir, citing concerns about water supply. Authorities are vigilant to ensure public order and essential services are maintained amid the tensions.
