In a move that blends nostalgia with a green future, Chennai is all set to welcome back its iconic double-decker buses after a gap of 17 years. The Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) has initiated the process to acquire 20 new air-conditioned electric double-decker buses, marking a significant push in its fleet electrification plans.
A Modern and Electric Comeback
The tender for these modern buses was floated shortly after a vibrant red electric double-decker, manufactured by Switch Mobility (the electric vehicle arm of Ashok Leyland), underwent successful trials on Chennai's roads. Videos of the sleek bus in motion quickly captured the public's imagination, going viral online and rekindling fond memories among long-time residents.
This revival, however, comes with a contemporary twist. Unlike their predecessors, the new fleet will be fully electric and air-conditioned, offering a comfortable and eco-friendly travel experience. The MTC currently operates 3,751 buses with 3,563 scheduled services, and has already introduced 120 electric buses as part of its broader sustainability strategy.
Route Feasibility and Operational Plans
Officials have clarified that these imposing vehicles will not ply on all routes. Their operation is contingent on specific infrastructural clearances. Adequate vertical clearance and the absence of overhead obstructions like electric cables, flyovers, and signage will be the key determinants for route selection.
R Sundarapandian, Joint Managing Director of MTC, revealed that operations have been initially narrowed down to two potential routes where the service once ran: Route A18 from Broadway to Tambaram and Route M-70 from Koyambedu to Broadway. "The operator will have to conduct a vertical clearance study to ensure there are no obstructions from wires or tree branches," he stated, highlighting the necessary precautions.
A Long and Storied History in the City
The announcement has stirred excitement due to the deep-rooted association of double-decker buses with Chennai's urban identity. First introduced in the 1970s, they became a familiar sight before being phased out in the 1980s due to various operational challenges. A brief resurgence occurred in 1997 on the 18A route, but that service too concluded in 2008, making their absence nearly two decades long.
The planned reintroduction of 20 electric double-deckers represents more than just adding buses; it symbolizes a fusion of Chennai's rich transport heritage with its ambitious, clean-energy future. It promises to offer a unique commuting option while contributing to reduced emissions and a quieter urban environment.
