A revamped depot at Tondiarpet in Chennai has opened as 100 electric buses were rolled out for public service, marking a visible step in the city's shift to zero-emission urban transport. The launch forms part of Phase one of the Chennai City Partnership programme and was overseen by the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) together with private bus operators participating in the scheme. The move forms part of broader city efforts to modernise bus services and encourage a shift from private vehicles to public transport.

Phase one has deployed 625 low-floor electric buses in total, including 225 air-conditioned vehicles and 400 non-air-conditioned buses to serve core urban routes. Operators on the route include OHM Global Mobility Pvt Ltd and Traveltime Mobility India Pvt, which will manage day to day operations from the Tondiarpet facility. The low-floor design aims to improve accessibility for elderly passengers and those with reduced mobility while enabling faster boarding and alighting.

An expansion under Phase two was announced to extend the electric fleet further with an envisaged total of 750 low-floor electric buses, comprising 500 air-conditioned and 250 non-air-conditioned vehicles. The additional capacity is expected to enhance service frequency and network reach across key corridors while supporting municipal goals on air quality and sustainable urban mobility. Officials noted that the expansion will be coordinated with charging infrastructure upgrades and staff training to maintain high reliability.

Officials indicated that the Tondiarpet depot will serve as a hub for charging, maintenance and scheduling as the Metropolitan Transport Corporation consolidates operations under the partnership model. Stakeholders said the phased approach aims to balance operational readiness with passenger convenience while private operators and the MTC work to integrate routes and timetables into the wider public transport system. Commuter feedback and operational data will be monitored to guide subsequent phases without compromising existing services.