Indias first electric AC double-decker bus to run on Mumbai streets from today

The first air-conditioned electric double-decker bus has entered the fleet of the BEST initiative. This attractive and comfortable bus will enter the service of passengers from next week. This service will run from Bandra-Kurla complex (BKC) to Bandra station. Later on, these buses will run in South Mumbai.

These buses will be seen running from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus to Nariman Point, Colaba to Worli and Kurla to Santacruz. The minimum fare for this bus will be INR 6 rupees.

Also Read: India Unveils First Stage Of Longest Expressway Connecting Delhi And Mumbai

The BEST initiative currently has 45 air-conditioned buses and it can carry 54 to 60 passengers. The total passenger capacity of the newly introduced double decker buses in BEST is 76. Features of this bus include CCTV cameras, special system for driver-passenger communication, automatic doors on both the sides.

Delay due to test certificate

The first air-conditioned electric bus was flagged off in August 2022 by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari. After that, the testing of this bus began at the ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India) centre in Pune.

Also Read: Dial 112 Project To Be Launched In Navi Mumbai

The bus was scheduled to come into service between September and October and then it was postponed to January 14. However, there was a delay in getting the test certificate, as per the reports. 

Facilities

• CCTV cameras
• Special arrangements for driver-passenger communication
• Automatic doors on both sides
• The control of opening and closing the doors rests with the bus driver