In a significant boost to public transport and inter-state connectivity, Tamil Nadu's Deputy Chief Minister, Udhayanidhi Stalin, inaugurated a fleet of 61 state-of-the-art buses in Chennai on Tuesday. The new vehicles, belonging to the State Express Transport Corporation (SETC), represent a substantial investment of ₹37.98 crore aimed at enhancing passenger comfort and safety.
A Leap in Passenger Comfort and Design
The newly flagged-off fleet includes a mix of seater and sleeper coaches, designed to cater to varied travel needs. For the first time in SETC's history, these buses are equipped with front air suspension, promising a remarkably smoother ride on long journeys. The sleeper berths have been thoughtfully designed to offer more personal space, with partitions for privacy and a personal fan for each berth.
Keeping the modern traveler in mind, every seat and sleeper berth is fitted with an individual USB charging port. Officials also highlighted the inclusion of a public address system, a microphone, and digital clocks for passenger convenience. Ample luggage space has been allocated to accommodate the needs of long-distance commuters.
Advanced Safety and Accessibility Features
Passenger safety has been a paramount concern in the design of these new buses. A critical SOS alert system is installed near the driver's cabin, allowing passengers to immediately alert the driver in case of an emergency. The buses also boast an Electronic Magnetic Retarder (EMR) for improved braking efficiency and a sophisticated Fire Detection and Suppression System (FDSS) to detect and control engine fires at an early stage.
In a move towards inclusive public transport, the buses are designed with special attention to the needs of the elderly, persons with disabilities, women, and children. A hydraulic kneeling system enables low-floor boarding, making it easier for all passengers to get on and off the bus.
Expanding Connectivity and a Greener Fleet
These new buses will ply on routes connecting various districts within Tamil Nadu and major cities in the neighboring states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Kerala. This expansion is set to improve interstate travel options significantly.
Aligning with environmental norms, the buses' engines comply with the stringent BS-VI Phase-II emission standards, contributing to reduced air pollution. This launch follows the earlier induction of 20 multi-axle AC luxury buses by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on December 24 last year, which cost ₹34.30 crore.
An SETC official revealed ambitious future plans, stating, "We plan to procure 110 new buses with seater and sleeper facilities soon as well." This continuous modernization drive underscores the state government's commitment to upgrading public transport infrastructure with a focus on safety, comfort, and sustainability.
