Chennai MTC Speeds Up Depot Modernisation for 750 New Electric Buses

The Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) has accelerated depot modernisation works as Chennai prepares for the second phase of its major electric bus expansion project. The initiative will see the induction of 750 new low-floor electric buses aimed at improving the city’s public transport network and promoting eco-friendly mobility.

As part of the preparations, MTC Managing Director Prabhushankar inspected the ongoing renovation and infrastructure development works at Central Depot–2 in Chennai on Saturday. Officials reviewed the proposed depot layout, EV charging infrastructure, parking arrangements, and other facilities needed to support the expanded electric bus fleet.

Joint Managing Director R. Sundharapandian and senior officials accompanied the Managing Director during the inspection visit.

The review comes shortly after MTC officials inspected prototype AC and non-AC electric buses at the manufacturing facility of Switch Mobility. The buses are being introduced under the second phase of the World Bank-supported Chennai City Partnership programme.

According to transport officials, the new electric buses will feature upgraded passenger amenities and enhanced accessibility features based on commuter feedback received during the first phase of the electric mobility project in Chennai.

Earlier this year, former Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin laid the foundation stone for the ambitious Phase-2 electric bus project on March 2.

Under the project, MTC plans to procure 750 electric buses at a total estimated cost of Rs 1,337.50 crore. The fleet will include 500 air-conditioned electric buses and 250 non-AC electric buses designed to offer safer, cleaner, and more comfortable travel for commuters across Chennai.

To support the increasing number of electric buses, MTC is upgrading existing depots with advanced charging facilities and simultaneously developing dedicated electric bus depots in different parts of the city. The depot development and charging infrastructure component of the project has been estimated at Rs 289.69 crore.

The large-scale electric bus rollout is expected to reduce vehicle emissions, improve urban mobility, and strengthen Chennai’s transition towards sustainable public transportation.