On June 30, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin marked a significant leap towards sustainable urban transport, inaugurating Chennai’s first upgraded electric bus depot at Vyasarpadi and flagging off the first phase of 120 new low-floor electric buses. This initiative, a first for government transport corporations in Tamil Nadu, underscores a commitment to environmental sustainability and passenger convenience.
The Vyasarpadi electric bus depot was modernised at a cost of ₹47.50 crore. The initial fleet of 120 low-floor electric buses, valued at ₹207.90 crore, is part of a larger ₹697 crore project to introduce 625 electric buses, funded through the Chennai City Partnership (CCP-SUSP) with support from the World Bank and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
These advanced buses aim to drastically reduce environmental pollution, tackling a three-fold increase in carbon emissions in Chennai since 2005. Each electric bus eliminates approximately 755 grams of CO2 per kilometre compared to its diesel counterparts. Designed for inclusivity, the buses feature a low-floor height (400mm, with a 250mm kneeling function), enabling easy access for persons with disabilities, women, children, and seniors. They also include enhanced safety features like multiple cameras.
The project involves upgrading five depots with charging infrastructure and maintenance facilities. Once fully charged, non-AC buses can cover 200 km.
Clarification on buses for ECR and OMR
The 120 new buses will operate on various key routes across the city. However, the areas of ECR and OMR have been starved of this facility. MTC has, on July 2, gave the below clarifications on the various questions from the public:
Why aren’t these buses operating in areas like OMR or ECR?
The newly launched low-floor electric buses are operated from Vyasarpadi Depot, and currently serve the surrounding areas through 11 routes. Once the Perumbakkam Depot is inaugurated, electric bus services will be expanded to OMR and ECR as well. Similarly, as the remaining 9 new depots are opened, other areas across Chennai will be covered.
Why are there no AC electric buses?
AC electric buses are coming soon! Out of the 1,225 electric buses, 625 will be Air-conditioned. In Phase 1, 225 will be AC electric buses and will be launched (Perumbakkam – 55, Central Depot – 100, Tondiarpet (1) – 25, Poonamallee – 45). In Phase 2, 400 AC electric buses will be operated (Alandur – 80, Central Depot (2) – 80, Padiyanallur – 40, Perambur – 80, Avadi – 60, Iyappanthangal – 60).
What is the Ticket Fare for these Electric Buses?
The ticket fare for the newly launched low-floor electric buses will be the same as MTC Chennai’s existing deluxe fare. No extra charge!
Are NCMC cards accepted in these buses?
Yes! All types of digital payments, including NCMC – Singara Chennai Card on all new electric buses are accepted.
Is the Rs. 1000 Pass valid in these electric buses?
Yes, Rs. 1000 travel passes are accepted in all Non-AC electric buses.
