MTC resumes bus operations in Chennai, occupancy remains low

After many weeks, the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) resumed operations of its bus providers in Chennai on Monday, after the State authorities introduced a number of relaxations through the ongoing COVID-19 lockdown.

The State authorities has allowed public transport operations (non air-conditioned buses) for Chennai, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu and Tiruvallur with 50% seating occupancy.

Transport Minister R.S. Rajakannappan, who inspected the central bus depot on Pallavan Salai together with senior transport officers on Monday morning, mentioned that MTC was working greater than 50% of the fleet of 1,792 buses. The Villupuram State Transport Corporation can be working 750 buses to cater to the residents of the three districts together with Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu and Tiruvallur, the place MTC buses are usually not out there. Based on the patronage, bus operations can be elevated in the approaching days, he added.

Mr. Rajakannappan, giving a break-up of the assorted varieties of MTC buses being operated, mentioned of the 1,792 buses being operated on Monday, 925 comprised atypical buses (free journey for girls and transpersons), 807 deluxe buses, 30 categorical and 30 small buses. He mentioned although 50% occupancy has solely been allowed as per the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) the Transport Department, to assist the general public journey, was utilising 50% of the fleet.

A senior official of the MTC mentioned although greater than 1,792 buses have been being operated protecting all routes, a lot of the bus stops had little crowds and the occupancy was additionally lower than 50% in a number of buses.

The MTC can also be taking all COVID-19 preventive measures of disinfecting buses, and permitting solely these commuters carrying masks to board.

The MTC, utilizing the lockdown, has additionally taken steps to vaccinate greater than 85% of the bus crew of drivers and conductors.