CHENNAI: Chief Minister MK Stalin will, on Wednesday, flag off the operation of 20 ultra-modern multi-axle AC luxury buses for the State Express Transport Corporation at the Island Grounds in Chennai.

The buses, procured at Rs 34.30 crore, are fully built 15-metre multi-axle diesel air-conditioned coaches. They will be deployed on long-distance routes within TN and on inter-State services to neighbouring States, where the SETC primarily operates.

Officials said the introduction of these premium buses was aimed at improving passenger comfort and safety, while offering a reliable alternative to private omnibuses, which often increase fares sharply during long weekends and festive seasons.

The flag-off ceremony will be attended by the Transport Minister SS Sivasankar, HR&CE and CMDA Minister PK Sekarbabu, Transport Department Principal Secretary, MDs of the Metropolitan Transport Corporation and the State Express Transport Corporation, senior officials, representatives of transport unions, and employees.