The state government has floated tenders for more new buses, some of which will be added to the MTC fleet.
What’s happening: The state transport department is looking to buy more than 1,700 new buses with 402 of them for the MTC. It’s the second batch of tenders floated by the Institute of Road Transport on behalf of the MTC. The earlier tender was for 242 new buses.
- The interior of these new buses will be the same as the MTC’s old Volvo buses. The last few rows of seats will be on a slightly raised platform to accommodate the rear engine.
- The 402 new buses will be the conventional low-floor buses. The floor height will be 900mm. It’ll have only two footsteps instead of three, making it easier for passengers to enter and exit.
Accessibility: The buses will be non-AC, but disabled-friendly and comply with existing government norms. Previously, the High Court issued a directive against a past attempt to buy buses with steep steps.