Chennai to see return of double-decker buses after 17 years
DOUBLE-decker buses are set to return to Chennai’s roads after more than 17 years, as the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) plans to introduce 20 air-conditioned electric double-decker buses as part of its fleet electrification drive.
According to a tender released by the MTC on Thursday, the buses will be procured under the Gross Cost Contract (GCC) model, under which the selected contractor will own, operate, and maintain the buses while the MTC pays based on kilometres run. Fare collection and revenue will remain with the MTC. A pre-bid meeting for interested contractors is scheduled for January 13 at 3 pm.
The announcement has generated public excitement, fueled by sightings of an electric double-decker bus from Switch Mobility on Chennai roads, with photos and videos going viral on social media.
Officials clarified that the buses will operate only on select corridors due to height restrictions. Routes with low bridges, overhead power lines, flyovers, or other obstructions will not be suitable for these vehicles.
The move brings Chennai in line with other Indian cities embracing electric double-decker services. Mumbai introduced the country’s first AC electric double-decker buses in January 2023, while Hyderabad and Bhubaneswar have also launched similar services. Thiruvananthapuram operates open-top double-deckers primarily for tourism.
All 20 proposed buses for Chennai are being designed, developed, and manufactured by a private company, which conducted a trial run in the city in August 2023. The trial followed an earlier announcement by the Transport Minister to explore double-decker services on tourist-focused routes.
Chennai has a long history with double-decker buses, dating back to the 1970s. After being discontinued in the 1980s, the buses briefly returned in 1997 on the High Court–Tambaram route before being withdrawn again in 2008. Officials say the new initiative aims to revive the iconic service in a modern, environmentally friendly, and commuter-friendly electric form.
