Double-decker buses return to Chennai after 18 years with eco-friendly electric fleet from today
Chennai double decker bus | An air-conditioned double-decker sightseeing bus, donated by Ashok Leyland with support from the US Tamil diaspora, will be launched by CM M.K. Stalin on Jan 12.
Chennai: An iconic symbol of Chennai’s urban landscape is set to roll back onto its roads after nearly two decades. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Monday t flag off the city’s revived double-decker bus service—now powered by electricity—inaugurating the new fleet on the occasion of Overseas Tamils Day. The buses will initially operate on tourist-centric routes, including Adyar to Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram).
Chennai double decker bus
A Nostalgic ComebackOnce a familiar sight in the 1970s and 1980s, Chennai’s double-decker buses were especially popular on routes like Tambaram to High Court, offering passengers a unique elevated view of the city. Despite their popularity, the service was discontinued in 2008 due to high operational and maintenance costs.
Modern Electric Fleet
In its new avatar, the service is environment-friendly and modern. The state transport corporation has procured 20 electric double-decker buses from Ashok Leyland in the first phase. The vibrant red buses are decorated with cultural motifs—including images of the Thanjavur Big Temple, Chennai lighthouse, Ripon Building, and Jallikattu bull tamer—along with the message "Tamil Vazhga” (Long Live Tamil).
Routes and Planning
After careful trial runs to navigate Chennai’s flyovers and metro rail structures, the buses will initially ply on two key corridors:
- Tambaram – Broadway
- Adyar/Koyambedu – Mahabalipuram (focusing on tourist travel)
Operated by the tourism department, the buses are expected to run frequently on weekends and in high-footfall zones.
Benefits: Eco-Friendly and Efficient
Being electric, the buses will cut fuel costs, reduce carbon emissions, and lower air pollution. With a 50–100% higher passenger capacity than standard buses, they are also expected to help ease road congestion.
For many Chennaites, the return of the double-decker is not just a transport upgrade but a walk down memory lane—a revival of the city’s heritage on wheels. The relaunch reinforces the state’s push toward sustainable public transport while rekindling a beloved chapter of Chennai’s commuting history.