Has Chennai Launched Its First Fleet of 120 Electric Buses?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Chennai is making strides in sustainable transport with the launch of its first fleet of electric buses. This initiative not only enhances urban mobility but also plays a crucial role in reducing pollution and improving air quality. Discover how this project is set to transform the city's transport landscape!
Key Takeaways
- Introduction of 120 electric buses marks a shift towards sustainable urban transport.
- Investment of Rs 207.90 crore underlines the commitment to eco-friendly mobility.
- Electric buses to operate on 11 routes across Chennai, enhancing accessibility.
- Each bus can travel up to 200 kilometers on a full charge.
- Infrastructure development includes charging stations at five depots.
Chennai, June 30 (NationPress) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin officially launched the city’s inaugural fleet of low-floor electric buses from the Metropolitan Transport Corporation’s (MTC) Vyasarpadi depot, representing a pivotal advancement towards a more sustainable urban transportation system.
A total of 120 electric buses, valued at Rs 207.90 crore, have been introduced under the Chennai City Partnership Programme and Chennai Sustainable Urban Services Programme, receiving backing from the World Bank and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.
During the inauguration of the revamped electric bus depot at Vyasarpadi, built at a cost of Rs 47.50 crore, MK Stalin emphasized that this initiative aims to reduce environmental pollution and enhance the air quality in Chennai.
Additional Chief Secretary (Transport) K. Phanindra Reddy announced that the MTC intends to deploy 625 new low-floor electric buses in the first phase, with an estimated expense of Rs 697 crore.
“Each diesel bus emits approximately 755 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometer. The introduction of electric buses will substantially lower emissions, greatly enhancing the city’s air quality,” he mentioned.
The newly launched 120 buses will serve 11 routes throughout Chennai. This includes 20 buses on the Broadway-Kalaignar Centenary Bus Terminus-Kilambakkam route (18A), 20 between Mahakavi Bharathiyar Nagar and KCBT-Kilambakkam (170TX), 10 on Vallalar Nagar-Poonamallee (37), 10 between Mahakavi Bharathiyar Nagar and Koyambedu (46G), and 10 on Perambur-Manali (164E).
Other routes will cater to Kaviarasu Kannadhasan Nagar and Thiru vi ka Nagar-Guindy-Thiru vi ka Industrial Estate. The electric buses are equipped with 39 seats complete with seat belts, accessible for wheelchairs with ramps and secure anchorage points, CCTV cameras, mobile charging ports, emergency alarms, and LED displays showing information about upcoming stops. Each bus can cover up to 200 kilometers on a full charge.
To facilitate this launch, infrastructure including charging stations has been established at five depots: Vyasarpadi, Perumbakkam, Poonamallee, Central, and Tondiarpet 1.
The launch event was attended by Transport Minister S.S. Sivasankar, Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister P.K. Sekarbabu, along with senior officials.
This new fleet is part of the state government's broader initiative to modernize Chennai's public transport system, minimize the city's carbon footprint, and provide safe, accessible, and eco-friendly mobility options for commuters.
Point of View
My perspective aligns with the ongoing efforts to enhance urban transport systems across the country. Chennai's initiative to introduce electric buses is commendable and reflects a commitment to sustainable development. It is crucial that other cities follow suit, embracing innovative solutions that prioritize environmental health and improved public transport infrastructure.
NationPress
30/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total cost of the electric buses introduced in Chennai?
The total cost of the 120 electric buses introduced in Chennai is Rs 207.90 crore.
How many routes will the new electric buses operate on?
The new electric buses will operate on 11 routes throughout Chennai.
What is the capacity and travel range of the electric buses?
Each electric bus has 39 seats and can travel up to 200 kilometers on a full charge.
Which organizations supported the electric bus initiative?
The initiative is supported by the World Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.
What features do the electric buses include for passenger safety?
The electric buses are equipped with seat belts, wheelchair accessibility, CCTV cameras, mobile charging points, emergency alarms, and LED displays.
