Double-decker buses were an integral part of India’s urban landscape for decades, evoking a sense of charm and adventure. These buses provided an efficient mode of transportation and offered a panoramic view of the cityscape from the top deck.
These buses were introduced in Kolkata in the early 1920s and were directly imported from London. Soon after, double-decker buses went to other major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, and Bangalore.
Recently, the State Government of Tamil Nadu has revealed that they’re reviewing the reintroduction of the double-decker bus services in the Chennai Metro City, which was functional 20 years ago.
Apart from the increased passenger carrying capacity, double-decker buses allow passengers to enjoy the view of tall buildings along the route and rejoice in the nostalgic feel these buses can bring in.
Earlier, the double-decker buses were operated in Chennai Metro City on the Broadway-Tambaram route. However, the service was discontinued in 2008 due to the excessive traffic congestion and the construction of numerous overbridges in the city.
Following the halt, trailer buses were introduced and operated as an alternative to double-deckers. But due to the challenges of driving these long buses in narrow lanes and roads, the trailer bus service was also stopped eventually.
Even though the possibility of running double-decker buses in city traffic is minimal, the service can connect tourist sites in Chennai, especially on the Chennai-ECR route. There are many speculations that these buses will be electric and air-conditioned.
Sivasankar, The State Transport Minister, Tamil Nadu, has been discussing and reviewing the possibility of bringing back the service with the higher officials of the State Bus Transport Corporations and has instructed to decide on the routes by the end of this month or the beginning of August.
“We have planned the reintroduction of the double-decker bus services in certain routes with scope. An analytical review is being conducted on whether this double-decker bus service could be introduced linking the various tourist spots in Chennai Metro City!” – said the minister.
Chennai has a rich history; the city has seen many advancements throughout these years, and surprisingly, double-decker buses played a role in it. It is given that reinstating these buses will attract tourists from all over the state.
