Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin inaugurated the upgraded Central Bus Depot in Chennai and flagged off 145 new low-floor electric buses, marking a significant step in the city’s transition towards green and sustainable public transport.
The modernised depot has been developed at a cost of ₹52.03 crore as part of the State government’s broader efforts to strengthen and upgrade urban transport infrastructure.
The newly introduced electric buses will be operated by the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC). The fleet includes 100 air-conditioned low-floor electric buses and 45 non-AC low-floor electric buses. Designed with passenger comfort in mind, the buses are equipped with CCTV cameras and feature a low-floor layout for easy boarding, especially benefiting the elderly and differently abled commuters. Each bus has a driving range of up to 200 km per charge and will ply on key arterial routes across the city, improving last-mile connectivity while reducing carbon emissions.
In addition to the electric buses, 49 premium sleeper-cum-seater buses were flagged off for the State Express Transport Corporation (SETC), enhancing long-distance travel services within Tamil Nadu.
With the addition of these 145 electric buses, Chennai’s e-mobility network continues to expand under the State’s sustainable urban transport initiative. The upgraded Central Depot will function as a key hub for charging, maintenance and operations, supporting the government’s vision of eco-friendly and efficient public transportation.