Chennai: Udhayanidhi Stalin Launches 58 Low Floored MTC Buses

On July 04, Sports Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin inaugurated 100 new buses for Chennai's public transport system. The new launches include 58 low-floor buses, 30 standard buses, and 12 renovated buses, marking a considerable upgrade for the city’s Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC).

The low-floor buses are designed with ground clearance of 400mm, lower than the 650mm of deluxe buses and 850mm of other models. This design was made in favor of easier boarding for the elderly and physically challenged passengers.

These new buses are equipped with several modern comforts for a journey. They boast air suspension for a smoother ride, GPS trackers, LED display boards, wider windows for better ventilation, and a public announcement system to clearly communicate stops. 

Each bus is fitted with a fire sensor and safety nozzle in the engine to prevent fire threats. The buses can carry up to 70 passengers, with 35 dedicated seats.

In line with this, the MTC Managing Director has issued a directive to ensure that bus crews assist physically challenged passengers with wheelchairs during boarding and alighting. The circular, dated August 3, highlights the importance of providing accessible services and ensuring that disabled passengers do not face any difficulties.

Rajiv Rajan, a disability rights activist and wheelchair user, acknowledged the positive step of adding low-floor buses to the fleet. However, he highlighted the need for a cultural shift among some drivers and conductors to ensure respectful and effective assistance for disabled passengers.