Tamil Nadu Government Takes Steps to Improve State Bus Services
CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu Government Transport Corporation is undergoing a major transformation in an effort to improve its services. In an announcement made recently, the government has revealed its plans to revamp the state buses and provide services that match those offered by private companies.
Long-distance bus travel in Tamil Nadu has largely been dominated by private companies due to several reasons. One of the main grievances of travelers has been the lack of facilities, poor maintenance, and frequent delays associated with government buses. In an effort to change this perception, the Tamil Nadu government has taken decisive steps to address these concerns.
As part of the transformation, the government has decided to refurbish the buses under the Tamil Nadu Government Rapid Transport Corporation to ensure they are at par with the quality and standards provided by private buses. Additionally, the government has issued tenders to purchase new buses, with a focus on increasing the number of air-conditioned buses. A tender has also been issued for the purchase of 450 town buses on behalf of the Tamil Nadu Government Transport Corporation.
To further improve the bus services, the government has also initiated a tender for the refurbishment of all existing buses. Last month, the TNSTC took to its Twitter page to share photos of yellow-colored buses, giving a glimpse of the upcoming changes. These new modifications include the installation of beds with pillows, replacement of USB chargers with charging points, installation of reclining seats with cloth covers, upgrades to windows and reading lights, and various changes in maintenance procedures.
The process of painting the buses in yellow, a distinct color choice, is said to be in its final stages. New buses are being prepared in Chennai, Bengaluru, Trichy, and Karur, while damaged and serviceable buses are being repaired in eight districts across Tamil Nadu. With a budget of Rs 500 crore allocated for the purchase of 1,000 new buses and the refurbishment of 500 old buses, the maintenance works have gained momentum.
It is worth noting that Tamil Nadu has seen different color schemes for its buses in the past. Under the AIADMK rule, buses were painted green, which was later changed to blue with the introduction of the PS4 bus. Currently, town buses are running in half pink color to distinguish them as free buses, and the latest addition to this vibrant palette is the bright yellow.
The Tamil Nadu government’s efforts to improve the state bus services are expected to provide commuters with a more comfortable and reliable mode of transportation. With these transformative measures underway, Tamil Nadu aims to establish its government buses as a strong competitor to private bus operators in the state.