MTC plans to operate premium buses in Chennai

The State Transport department has given the nod to the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) to operate premium bus services along some routes in Chennai.

The State Transport department has given the nod to the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) to operate premium bus services along some routes in Chennai.

The department had issued a Government Order (G.O.) in September last year, directing the MTC to hire service providers to operate under its aegis by preparing a Detailed Project Report (DPR). The DPR was to bring out the remunerative routes where these premium buses could be operated, along with the number of bus services. 

A senior official of the department said the proposal to operate premium buses on some routes comes in the wake of a feasibility study done by the MTC to minimise the usage of private vehicles, mainly cars, and based on its inability to cater to those commuters willing to travel in better comfort at higher fares. Once the DPR is submitted to the State government, the MTC plans to launch the premium services by the end of this March, the official said. 

As per the G.O., the premium buses are segmented under the premium travel category and would provide luxurious bus rides equipped with air conditioners, GPS, and spacious seats. 

The department deliberated two models for operating these luxurious buses — direct licensing and hiring of service providers — and has finally decided to adopt the hiring of service providers model. 

The department official said the hiring model was found to be better suited as it would be under the control of MTC, prevents unnecessary competition between MTC and private operators, and would help in sharing revenue.

The MTC is preparing the bid document for hiring service providers and working out the modalities for operating on high-revenue routes, including Rajiv Gandhi Salai.