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On September 15, 2023, Mumbai's famed double-decker buses will say goodbye to the city's busy streets, marking the end of an era for the city's public transport system.
Double-decker buses have been a very important part of Mumbaikars. It is indeed directly connected to the emotions of the people as these iconic buses are unique in themselves which carries nostalgia at its best. I have travelled so many times in double-decker buses when I was in Mumbai. It is indeed a unique feeling to have a ride on it.
The double-decker buses have been a common sight on the streets of Mumbai for many years. Basic non-AC Open deck double-decker buses were first introduced on January 26, 1997, in cooperation with MTDC, after double-decker buses were first introduced in 1937.
Both locals and visitors have been captivated by their towering presence and expansive interiors. The fleet of twin-deck buses once reached as many as 242 vehicles! The eventual phase-out of these buses, however, marks the end of an era.
Over time, double-decker buses have vanished, and now it's 15th September 2023 when we will see the last double-decker bus roaming around on the streets of Mumbai. The final open-top, non-AC double-decker bus, noted for its heritage tour service, will subsequently stop running on October 5.
The choice has been made to retire these recognizable buses, nonetheless, in light of the times we live in and the demand for more environmentally friendly transit options.
The city's bus system is run by the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) initiative, which has made plans to use electric, air-conditioned double-deckers on tourist routes. The current fleet of double-decker buses will gradually be phased out as part of this change.
18 air-conditioned double-deckers will soon be added to BEST's fleet. The suburbs will receive 10 of these buses, meeting the growing need for effective and consistent public transport in these areas. South Mumbai, where there is a similar demand for better connection and transport options, will be served by the remaining 8 buses.
Safety issues linked with continuing to operate these old buses are the main reason for this decision. According to a BEST official, it is required by court order to stop using any vehicle after 15 years of service has been completed.
BEST officials are thinking about the potential of putting one of these buses in their museum as part of their efforts to preserve the memory of these legendary vehicles.
