Tirupati, September 24: In an unusual incident, an electric bus designated for devotees visiting the Tirumala temple was stolen during the early hours of Sunday. The theft occurred at the garage maintained by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), the body responsible for overseeing the renowned hill shrine.
Following the theft, temple authorities promptly filed a complaint with the local police. Fortunately, the stolen electric bus was later located near Naidupeta in Tirupati district. The thief seemingly abandoned the vehicle after it depleted its battery charge. Subsequently, the police initiated an official case and launched an investigation into the matter.
This incident has raised concerns about the security measures in place at the TTD, especially at a time when the temple is experiencing a significant influx of devotees attending the annual Brahmotsavam festival. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the TTD has initiated an inquiry to identify any lapses in security protocols.
The temple authorities regularly provide free electric buses to facilitate the transportation of devotees to the hill shrine. The stolen bus had been parked at the garage, undergoing charging, before it was taken by the thief.
Fortunately, due to the presence of a GPS system in the bus, officials were able to track its location to Naidupeta. The police, in coordination with TTD officials, swiftly responded and located the vehicle abandoned on a bypass road.
