Chennai Brings Back Double-Decker Buses as Electric Fleet

Chennai commuters will soon experience a beloved piece of transit history with a sustainable twist when electric double-decker buses roll through city streets for the first time in two decades.

The Metropolitan Transport Corporation is purchasing 20 air-conditioned electric double-deckers, aiming to have them operational by March 2024. The organization discontinued double-decker service nearly 20 years ago but is now ready to revive the iconic vehicles with zero-emission technology.

The timing works perfectly since Chennai already built the charging infrastructure needed for electric buses. The city successfully launched electric bus service through a private operator, proving the technology works in local conditions.

Transport officials say the tender process will wrap up by February, moving quickly to get the distinctive buses back on familiar routes. The project uses the gross cost contract scheme, a funding model that helps cities adopt cleaner transit options.

The Ripple Effect

This initiative does more than bring back a nostalgic favorite. It shows how cities can honor their transportation heritage while tackling climate change head-on.

Chennai joins a growing number of Indian cities electrifying their bus fleets, cutting urban air pollution one vehicle at a time. Double-decker buses carry more passengers per trip than standard models, making them doubly efficient when powered by electricity instead of diesel.

The comeback story has one important subplot still being written. Disability rights advocates are pushing for low-floor designs that make the buses accessible to people with mobility challenges, citing a Madras High Court order requiring inclusive public transit.

MTC officials acknowledge the request and say they'll evaluate low-floor options as the pilot program develops. Since this initial purchase involves only 20 buses as a test run, they have room to incorporate accessibility features in future orders.

For now, Chennai residents can look forward to rediscovering an old favorite while riding into a cleaner future.