In a significant development, Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporations (TNSTC), except for MTC and SETC, are set to welcome a fleet of 1,666 new buses after a four-year hiatus. The Institute of Road Transport (IRT) has finalized the bids to procure these buses, marking a crucial step towards enhancing public transportation services. Here’s what you need to know:
New Buses for TNSTC
- Major Procurement: The State Transport Minister, SS Sivasankar, announced that 1,666 new bus chassis would be acquired at a cost of Rs 371.16 crore, following the directives of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin.
- Enhancing Services: The procurement aims to provide improved bus facilities for the Corporation, benefiting both town and mofussil (rural) services.
- Distribution: The distribution of new buses is as follows:
- TNSTC Kumbakonam: 367 buses
- TNSTC Madurai: 350 buses
- TNSTC Villupuram: 344 buses
- TNSTC Coimbatore: 279 buses
- TNSTC Tirunelveli: 242 buses
- TNSTC Salem: 84 buses
- TNSTC Coimbatore will receive 16 buses exclusively designed for hilly areas.
Elevating Public Transport
- This procurement marks a significant development as no new buses have been introduced for the State Transport Undertakings since 2019-20, mainly due to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and legal proceedings.
- It’s worth noting that MTC (Metropolitan Transport Corporation) and SETC (State Express Transport Corporation) will receive their share of new buses within this fiscal year as tenders are currently under process.
Ashok Leyland to Deliver
- Prominent Order: Chennai-based Ashok Leyland has secured the order from TNSTCs for these 1,666 buses.
- Advanced Technology: The buses will be equipped with the advanced iGen6 BS VI technology, featuring a robust 147 kW (197 hp) H-series engine, designed to enhance passenger comfort, and safety, and reduce the overall cost of ownership.
- Milestone Achievement: This order has brought significant accolades for Ashok Leyland, as Sanjeev Kumar, President- M&HCV, Ashok Leyland, expressed that they are on the verge of crossing a prestigious milestone with over 20,000 of their buses in operation with TN State Transport Undertakings, which is a testament to the company’s reliability, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
The introduction of 1,666 new buses is a promising step towards enhancing public transportation services in Tamil Nadu. With advanced technology and a strategic distribution plan, TNSTC aims to elevate the quality of public transport for the convenience of its residents. This development is a testament to the commitment to providing efficient and reliable transport services to the people of Tamil Nadu.
Source : dtnext
