Chennai’s low-floor buses provide better access for disabled passengers, but infrastructure deficiencies at bus stops persist
MTC will introduce 60-100 new low-floor buses every month, depending on production, out of the total 600 diesel-powered low-floor buses. | Photo credit: B. JOTHI RAMALINGAM
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Chennai’s new low-floor buses by the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) are a positive step towards accessible public transport, but R. Sathish Kumar, a member of the Disability Rights Alliance, believes that further developments are needed.
Despite these advances, he stressed that further infrastructure improvements are needed. “Ramps at bus stops are essential. Without them, wheelchair users cannot even reach the bus stops. Currently, most bus stops in Chennai do not have ramps, so wheelchair users have to wait on the roadway, which is not only difficult but also dangerous,” he said.
Mr Kumar said the Chennai bus app needs to be updated to make it easier for people with reduced mobility to spot the new low-floor buses, preferably with a dedicated icon for them. He added that waiting times are long as only 58 of these buses are in service and more buses should be deployed to improve the frequency of service.
He also stressed the importance of the bus stop positions in relation to the platform. “Buses must stop close to the platform so that the manually folding ramps can be used effectively. If the bus stops too far away, the ramp becomes too steep, making boarding and alighting difficult and unsafe for wheelchair users. A flat, level connection between the bus and the platform would make boarding easier and safer for all passengers,” he said.
In response, MTC Managing Director Alby John said, “We are already working on updating the Chennai Bus app based on the feedback we have received from the public. Within a week, the app will include a low-floor bus identifier.” He added, “In addition, MTC will introduce 60 to 100 new low-floor buses every month, depending on production, out of the total 600 diesel-powered low-floor buses.”
J. Kumaragurubaran, Commissioner, Greater Chennai Corporation, said that improving bus stop amenities, including renovation of platforms, adding ramps with handrails and ensuring level boarding, would be discussed in a technical meeting with MTC officials and an SOP for city bus stops would be prepared soon.
