Union leaders skeptical of electric buses

With each electric bus, roughly costing Rs 1.5 crore, activists wonder if TNSTC which is already struggling under financial crisis will have necessary funds to operate e-buses. Even the officials are floundering to operate air-conditioned buses due to loss of revenue and in such a condition, the officials are planning to procure 2,000 electric buses for the city at an estimated cost of Rs 2,000 crore. 

Natarajan, treasurer of Labour Progressive Federation (LPF), said, “Though it will be an uphill task for the transport department, they can revamp the system in a phased manner. However, the transport department should first disburse pending arrears.”

Daniel Robinson, programme manager of Chennai City Connect, said, “It is highly possible for operating electric buses, but officials should maintain those buses properly. Further, the officials should conduct proper study before operating such buses.” When contacted, V Krishnamurthy, MD of MTC, said, “We are preparing a blueprint and the process to float a tender is on.” 

Similarly, the officials are keen to operate buses with sleeper facilities. We are planning to change the transport system, in which there will be no loss of revenue. Further, we have sought opinions of some experts and transport related NGOs to make the system more efficient.”  

It may be noted that the transport officials had already conducted a trial run of the electric bus, which is from Ashok Leyland. Another bus from Tata is expected to come to the city soon for the trial run.