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Chennai is set to improve its public transportation system with the introduction of 170-180 new low-floor, non-air-conditioned electric buses. These buses are part of a bigger plan to add 500 electric buses to the city's fleet, supported by World Bank funding. This move aims to make travel more comfortable, reduce overcrowding, and provide a better experience for commuters. The new buses will also support the 'Vidiyal Payanam' scheme, which offers free travel to women, persons with disabilities (PwDs), and transpersons.
Expanding the Electric Bus Fleet
The procurement of these electric buses will cost ₹875 crore, with 70% of the funding coming from the World Bank and the remaining 30% covered by the Tamil Nadu government. This investment shows the state's commitment to building a sustainable and efficient public transport system. With these additions, the total number of buses providing free travel for women will increase from 1,630 to 1,800. The new buses are expected to be on the roads within the next four to five months.
Deployment and Infrastructure Upgrades
Out of the 500 electric buses ordered, there will be 400 non-air-conditioned and 100 air-conditioned low-floor buses. These buses will serve different routes to meet the needs of a diverse group of commuters. Chennai has the second-highest bus ridership in India, after Mumbai, making this expansion an important step in reducing congestion and improving travel conditions.
A senior Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) official explained that nearly 40%-45% of the 400 new non-AC electric buses will run as ordinary services, allowing free travel for women under the 'Vidiyal Payanam' scheme. The government will reimburse the cost of these free rides, ensuring that public transport remains affordable and accessible.
To support the smooth operation of these electric buses, MTC is setting up charging stations and maintenance facilities at major depots, including Vyasarpadi, Perumbakkam, KK Nagar, Poonamallee, Tondiarpet, and Perambur. These facilities will ensure that the electric buses run efficiently and reliably.
Better Travel Experience for Commuters
The electric buses are currently in the testing phase. Prototypes of both AC and non-AC models are being evaluated, and once approved, mass production will begin. The buses are expected to start operations within three to four months.
The introduction of these buses is a major step towards reducing pollution, lowering fuel costs, and offering a more comfortable commuting experience. The move is also in line with the global shift towards eco-friendly transportation.
The 'Vidiyal Payanam' scheme has already benefited around 60 lakh people across Tamil Nadu, and with the expansion of the electric bus fleet, public transport in Chennai will become more efficient, cleaner, and more inclusive. These changes will make commuting in the city smoother while promoting a greener future.
