BMTC is gearing up to reintroduce double-decker buses

BMTC has identified 3 routes suitable for double-decker buses

Each double-decker bus can accommodate around 65 passengers

The Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) is gearing up to reintroduce double-decker buses in Bengaluru by inviting tenders.

With limited options available, BMTC has identified three routes suitable for operating double-decker buses: Majestic (Kempegowda bus station) to Shivajinagar, Majestic to Attibele, and Vijayanagar to Kalasipalya.

The state government has approved the floating of tenders to lease 10 double-decker AC electric buses under a gross cost contract (GCC) model. BMTC plans to utilize funds from the Directorate of Urban Land Transport and the National Clean Air Programme for this double-decker project. Unlike ordinary electric buses with a carrying capacity of 33-40 seats, each double-decker can accommodate around 65 passengers.

Despite the desire to ease heavy traffic with more double-decker buses, the majority of roads in the city are no longer suitable for them. Over the past 25 years, the city has witnessed significant road transformations, including the construction of 42 flyovers and 28 underpasses, making it challenging for double-decker buses to navigate. Additionally, the presence of numerous skywalks, low-height gantries, and other structures further restricts their deployment on all roads.

The last appearance of double-decker buses on Bengaluru’s roads was in 1997 when they were phased out due to operational and maintenance issues. However, there is a renewed interest in reintroducing them as part of an initiative to promote public transport in the tech capital, which ranks among the top 10 most congested cities globally.