Volvos to get special depot

Volvos to get special depot
New Indian Express

BANGALORE: It’s a special depot just for Volvos. Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) plans to build an exclusive Volvo depot adjacent to the Shantinagar bus terminus.

Sources said the BMTC had earlier planned to construct a commercial complex but Big Bazaar was allowed to set up shop instead.

However, BMTC Chief Engineer (Civil) M Dileep said a commercial and parking complex and a Volvo bus depot would come up on the two-acre plot adjacent to the Shanthinagar bus terminus.

The ground floor of the multi-purpose complex would be used as a Volvo bus depot.

The other floors atop will have BMTC administration offices, and a parking lot for two and four wheelers. The BMTC is planning to append two more storeys on the top of present Shanthinagar bus terminus building and dedicate the space to car parking. "We propose to join both the buildings with an elevated corridor," he added.

The cost of the project will be Rs 30 crore, which includes the cost of two floors additional floors at the terminus.

Dileep said that BMTC was planning to include the project under Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM). The Corporation has sent a proposal to the state government, which in turn has sent a proposal to the Centre.

Under JNNURM, the Centre will contribute 35 per cent of the total fund and the State will contribute 15 percent.

‘‘The remaining 50 per cent will be funded by the corporation,’’ he added. As a Volvo fleet requires special maintenance, the BMTC would have trained mechanics in the exclusive depot that can handle 50 buses. BMTC is now plying 25 Volvo buses in the city. An additional 25 Volvo buses are expected to operate by November.