CHENNAI: Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Tuesday flagged off 61 new air-conditioned luxury buses of the State Express Transport Corporation (SETC), valued at Rs 37.98 crore, at Island Grounds in Chennai.
The buses, equipped with seating and sleeper facilities, have been introduced as part of the State government’s efforts to strengthen long-distance public transport and provide safer and more comfortable travel options. They will operate from Chennai to various destinations across Tamil Nadu and to major cities in neighbouring States such as Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Kerala.
Under government orders, 110 new advanced buses with seating and sleeper berths have been allotted to SETC, of which 61 buses have been launched in the first phase.
The newly introduced buses feature front air suspension for enhanced ride comfort, increased berth space with partitions between sleeper berths, individual charging points for each seat and berth, personal fans for sleeper passengers, and an SOS alarm near the driver’s cabin for emergencies. They are also fitted with public address systems, digital clocks, ample luggage and parcel space, engines designed to reduce air pollution, electronic magnetic retarders for improved braking, and fire detection and suppression systems.
Officials said the remaining buses would be introduced in phases in the coming months.