AC Buses in Chennai
In Jan 2008 when i wrote about Chennai buses, I had written that "there are Volvo AC buses too ! The charge from Central Station to Mandaveli is 20.00 in this bus, and you will see hardly one or two passengers travelling in these hi-tech buses." That was Jan 2008 and I had not travelled in AC buses in Chennai that time.
Now, after nearly 12 months, I feel that my opinion was a hasty one. If you have travelled in Chennai autos, particularly from Central Station, you will feel the cool difference of travelling in AC buses (provided you don't have heavy luggage.) It is economical too comparing Chennai autos.
In Jan 2008 when i wrote about Chennai buses, I had written that "there are Volvo AC buses too ! The charge from Central Station to Mandaveli is 20.00 in this bus, and you will see hardly one or two passengers travelling in these hi-tech buses." That was Jan 2008 and I had not travelled in AC buses in Chennai that time.
Now, after nearly 12 months, I feel that my opinion was a hasty one. If you have travelled in Chennai autos, particularly from Central Station, you will feel the cool difference of travelling in AC buses (provided you don't have heavy luggage.) It is economical too comparing Chennai autos. Earlier on 6 Feb 2008, Vijaya and I travelled in AC bus from Broadway to Mandaveli, a luxurious travel. And yesterday (17 Dec 2008) we travelled from Nungambakkam to Mandaveli, by 29C. Cool, comfortable cushioned seats, music, no crowd, a friendly-conductor, no pollution of any kind - just for Rs 18 per person. I would have paid not less than 70.00 for an auto, that too after "arguments".
The bus has around 35 seats and plenty of room to stand, and the super smooth ride makes standing a viable option. The airconditioning is very effective. The driver steers the vehicle with ease, his console a dizzying array of lights and digital information. Theres even an lcd display on his side, with feeds from cameras located at the exit and the rear. The bus comes to a halt and at the doors open without a sound.
rajappa
12:30 noon on 18 Dec 2008
rajappa
12:30 noon on 18 Dec 2008
I narrowly missed travelling by AC bus this time - when I had to travel from Chennai Central to Thiruvanmiyur. I took a "தாழ் தள சொகுசு பேருந்து” and as the bus was just leaving the station, the next bus to Thiruvanmiyur was an AC bus. Anyway, next time I hope I will try it out.
ReplyDeleteIn Pune, they introduced few AC buses - but the fare was kept the same - I travelled by that once, it was nice but crowded. (not sure of the condition of the buses now).