The SETC has begun operating the 20 Volvo buses on both inter-State and intra-State routes
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
The State Express Transport Corporation (SETC) has upped the ante in passenger comfort and safety by launching Volvo buses in the State. The introduction of 20 multi-axle Volvo buses has enabled the long-distance State transport undertaking to compete with private omnibus operators and other State transport corporations by offering competitive fares to passengers.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin recently flagged-off the 20 multi-axle ultra-luxury Volvo buses, which were procured at a cost of ₹34.30 crore. According to a senior SETC official, a total of 130 new buses—comprising 20 multi-axle Volvo buses and 110 single-axle buses—have been launched across the State.
Explaining the features of the Volvo buses, the official said that the vehicles are built on a monocoque chassis and offer superior ride comfort with 51 captain-type seats equipped with calf support, panoramic viewing windows, and stylish overhead luggage compartments. The multi-axle buses are fitted with air-spring suspension and advanced shock absorber systems, ensuring a smooth ride. Safety features include a roof escape hatch and a fire protection system.
The Volvo buses are powered by the latest engines complying with Bharat Stage-VI emission norms, and are equipped with electronic diagnostic controls to identify technical issues.
SETC has begun operating the 20 multi-axle Volvo buses on both inter-State and intra-State routes to destinations such as Tirunelveli, Tiruchendur, Tiruppur, Madurai, Thanjavur, Salem, Coimbatore, Nagercoil, Tiruchi, and Bengaluru. The fare has been fixed at a competitive rate of ₹1.80 per kilometre.
For operating these buses, SETC has selected 65 drivers and conductors with over 10 years of service and provided them with specialised training. The official added that drivers were required to pass driving tests conducted by Volvo, and only certified drivers have been deployed.
T. Shanmugam, a passenger who travelled from Chennai to Thanjavur, said the journey offered an excellent travel experience at a competitive price, though he felt that reducing the number of stops would help ensure faster travel.
Earlier, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operated multi-axle Volvo buses under the ‘Airavat’ brand. SETC now aims to offer a similar, upgraded travel experience to passengers in the State with the introduction of the Volvo 9600 model.
Published – December 31, 2025 07:35 pm IST
