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Key Points

Tamil Nadu MTC is upgrading its breakdown recovery fleet to improve efficiency and reduce service disruptions. The new vehicles will replace 15-year-old lorries stationed across key routes in Chennai. The ₹2.31 crore project includes 10 LMVs and 2 heavy-duty vans for faster emergency response. This move aligns with broader efforts to enhance commuter experience and traffic management.

Key Points: Tamil Nadu MTC to Replace 15-Year-Old Breakdown Recovery Vehicles

  • MTC to replace 12 ageing breakdown lorries with modern vehicles
  • New fleet includes 10 LMVs and 2 heavy-duty recovery vans
  • Cost estimated at ₹2.31 crore excluding additional charges
  • Aims to reduce bus downtime and improve emergency response times
2 min read

Tamil Nadu MTC to procure 12 new breakdown recovery vehicles as 15-year old fleet nears phase out

Tamil Nadu MTC plans to procure 12 new breakdown recovery vehicles to replace its ageing fleet, ensuring faster response times and reduced bus service disruptions.

"The objective is to minimise service disruptions, reduce traffic congestion caused by stalled buses, and ensure passengers do not face extended delays. — MTC Official"

Chennai, July 28

The Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) of Tamil Nadu has proposed the procurement of 12 new breakdown recovery vehicles to replace its ageing fleet of mobile maintenance lorries that have served for over 15 years.

The move comes in response to a government directive mandating the decommissioning of public service vehicles older than 15 years by September 2025.

Currently, MTC operates 12 mobile breakdown lorries strategically stationed at key points in the city, including Anna Salai, Kamarajar Salai, and Poonamallee High Road.

These vehicles are staffed by trained drivers and technical personnel who provide essential on-road assistance for buses that suffer mechanical failures, tyre punctures, or accidents during operation.

With a fleet of 3,233 buses ferrying over 33 lakh passengers daily, MTC relies on these breakdown vehicles to ensure uninterrupted service and quick emergency response.

Under the new proposal, MTC plans to replace the old vehicles with 10 built-up Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) equipped with closed container bodies and two heavy-duty recovery vans.

The aim is to enhance operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and ensure prompt roadside support in the event of breakdowns.

According to sources, specifications for the new vehicles have been sourced through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM).

Each LMV is estimated to cost Rs 13.5 lakh, while each heavy recovery van will cost around Rs 48 lakh.

The total cost of the new fleet is projected at Rs 2.31 crore. This figure does not include expenses such as temporary registration, road tax, freight charges, insurance, and other incidental costs.

“The objective is to minimise service disruptions, reduce traffic congestion caused by stalled buses, and ensure that passengers do not face extended delays,” a senior MTC official said.

“The new vehicles will also improve overall maintenance response times.”

However, the official added that if the government grants an extension to continue using the current fleet for another year, the procurement process may be postponed.

The replacement of the breakdown fleet is part of a broader push by MTC to modernise its infrastructure and improve commuter experience.

With Chennai’s roads witnessing increasing traffic pressure, efficient handling of bus breakdowns has become critical to maintaining traffic flow and commuter confidence in public transport.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
₹2.31 crore seems reasonable for 12 vehicles. But why not go electric? This is perfect opportunity to go green like other metro cities. Chennai's air quality needs improvement and govt should lead by example 🌿
A
Arjun K
Good initiative but MTC should first fix basic bus maintenance. Many breakdowns happen because buses aren't serviced properly. My cousin is conductor - says some buses run with known issues for weeks. New recovery vans won't solve root problem.
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Shreya B
As daily bus user, this is welcome change! Last month, bus broke down near T Nagar and recovery van took 1 hour. Traffic was blocked, everyone was sweating in heat. Hope new vans have GPS tracking for faster response 🚌💨
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Michael C
Interesting to see GeM portal being used for procurement. Transparency in government purchases is crucial. Hope they publish all tender details publicly too. More cities should adopt this model to prevent corruption in vehicle purchases.
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Kavya N
They should equip these vans with basic first aid too. Many times elderly passengers get stressed during breakdowns. Small things like drinking water and chairs would make big difference for waiting passengers, especially in Chennai heat!

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