Now, locate your MTC bus using mobile apps

In the first phase, department sources said that officials have completed geo-coding for 3,485 MTC bus shelters in the city. However, the number of buses is yet to be ascertained. However, the sources also said that completing the process across Chennai will still take some time.

Transport officials said that the State government sanctioned funds for 2,000 new buses during the 2017-18 budget and allotted Rs 600 crore for 2018-19 to procure 3,000 new buses. The Department is set to replace 4,593 old buses across the state. 

Daniel Robinson, Programme Manager, Chennai City Connect, welcomed the move. “In major cities like Chennai, public transport is of paramount importance. Since lakhs of passengers avail of MTC buses, this app-based system will make it easier for them to locate buses and their routes from their mobiles,” he said, adding, the new system is likely to attract good patronage for the Transport Department. 

Additional Chief Secretary (Transport), PWC Davidar, told DT Next , “Geocoding has been completed for 3,485 MTC bus shelters in the city. Moreover, officials are working towards completing geocoding across Chennai. Even though it will take time, we will do or best to complete it on time.” The department is also in the process of identifying buses to fix GPS, he added. 

The new method will pave the way for passengers across the state to locate destination of all buses and their stops, arrival timings and even the fare. 

At a time, when MTC buses are often criticised for its long-list of issues like breakdowns, lack of maintenance and ageing buses, the new move is expected to attract commuters.