In a move towards sustainable and cost-effective public transport, the Tamil Nadu Transport Department (TNTD) has announced a trial operation to convert diesel buses to compressed natural gas (CNG) buses. This initiative aims to reduce fuel costs and environmental impact by transitioning from diesel to cleaner CNG.The trial will involve the conversion of two buses each from MTC Chennai, TNSTC Villupuram, Kumbakonam, and Madurai into CNG buses. According to sources within the transport department, CNG kits will be installed in these buses. Following the installation, the buses will be presented to the Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) for approval to officially convert their fuel type from diesel to CNG. The trial operation will commence once the necessary approvals are obtained. If successful, the transport department plans to expand the installation of CNG kits to more buses across the state.
Financially, the switch to CNG offers significant savings. Currently, the cost of one kilogram of CNG in Chennai is Rs 86, compared to Rs 92.34 for one liter of diesel. This transition could result in a 20% reduction in fuel costs for the transport department.
This initiative comes alongside MTC’s broader push towards electrification of its fleet. MTC has already announced plans to procure 600 electric buses and has floated tenders for this purpose. Specifically, under a KfW-funded project, MTC has invited bids to procure 100 electric buses. Additionally, under the Gross Cost Contract (GCC) project, tenders have been issued to acquire 500 low-floor electric buses, which includes 400 non-air-conditioned and 100 air-conditioned buses.
The combination of CNG conversion and the procurement of electric buses signals a significant shift in Tamil Nadu’s approach to public transportation. The trial operation for CNG buses represents a critical step in evaluating the feasibility and benefits of such conversions, which, if successful, could lead to wider adoption and a more sustainable public transport system in the state.