Chief Minister M.K. Stalin officially inaugurated Chennai’s first upgraded electric bus depot at Vyasarpadi and flagged off the initial phase of 120 new low-floor electric buses on June 30. This pioneering initiative, marking a significant first for government transport corporations in Tamil Nadu, underscores a robust commitment to environmental stewardship and enhanced passenger convenience. The move is poised to redefine urban mobility in the metropolis, directly contributing to the vision of a zero net carbon, eco-friendly, and equitable city by significantly reducing vehicular emissions and fostering inclusive public transport.
The modernisation of the Vyasarpadi electric bus depot, undertaken at a cost of ₹47.50 crore, forms a critical part of this green transition. The initial fleet of 120 low-floor electric buses, valued at ₹207.90 crore, is a component of a larger, ambitious ₹697 crore project. This comprehensive initiative aims to introduce a total of 625 electric buses, bolstered by crucial financial support from global development partners, including the World Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) through the Chennai City Partnership (CCP-SUSP). Such international collaborations are vital for accelerating sustainable urban infrastructure projects in rapidly growing Indian cities.
These advanced electric buses are engineered to deliver substantial environmental benefits, directly addressing Chennai’s escalating carbon emissions, which have seen a three-fold increase since 2005. Each electric bus is projected to eliminate approximately 755 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre compared to its diesel counterparts, offering a tangible pathway towards cleaner urban air and mitigating the impacts of climate change. Beyond environmental gains, the design prioritises inclusivity: the buses feature a low-floor height of 400mm, with an additional 250mm kneeling function, ensuring effortless access for persons with disabilities, women, children, and seniors. Enhanced safety features, including multiple surveillance cameras, further augment the passenger experience.
The broader project encompasses the strategic upgrading of five bus depots with state-of-the-art charging infrastructure and maintenance facilities, crucial for the efficient operation and longevity of the electric fleet. The non-AC electric buses boast an impressive range of 200 km on a single charge, making them highly suitable for extensive urban routes. While the initial deployment of 120 buses will serve various key routes across the city, a pertinent clarification was issued by the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) on July 2 regarding the absence of these buses on the East Coast Road (ECR) and Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR) corridors.
MTC clarified that the newly launched low-floor electric buses are currently operating from the Vyasarpadi Depot, catering to 11 routes in its surrounding areas. The expansion of electric bus services to the IT corridors of OMR and ECR is slated for commencement once the Perumbakkam Depot is inaugurated, with further expansion planned as the remaining nine new depots become operational across Chennai. This phased approach, while practical for infrastructure development, highlights the ongoing challenge of ensuring equitable access to advanced public transport across all parts of a sprawling metropolitan area, particularly those with high commuter density.
This significant investment in electric public transport is a pivotal step towards transforming Chennai into a truly sustainable and gender-neutral city. By prioritising clean energy and accessible design, the initiative promises to enhance the daily lives of millions, fostering a healthier urban environment and promoting greater social equity in mobility. The successful rollout and subsequent expansion of this electric fleet will serve as a crucial model for other Indian cities striving to achieve their own ambitious targets for zero net carbon emissions and inclusive urban development.
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