Mumbaikars bid farewell to the last diesel-run double-decker bus of the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking, marking the end of an era. The bus, which had been in operation for 86 years, made its final trip on route 415 before heading to the Marol depot. While new battery-operated double-deckers have already been introduced, three open-deck diesel-run buses used for sightseeing tours will continue operating until October 5. Commuters and bus enthusiasts gathered to say goodbye, expressing gratitude for the iconic bus and calling for a couple of them to be preserved in a museum.
Mumbai s iconic red double-decker buses, which have been a part of the city s public transport system for over eight decades, will be taken off the streets permanently. The decision has sparked calls from commuter groups and bus enthusiasts to preserve at least two of these historic vehicles in a museum. The double-decker buses were introduced in 1937 and have become symbolic of the city.
Best Buses: The BEST undertaking, which provides public bus services in Mumbai and neighbouring areas, has hired more than 1,600 buses from seven contractors on a wet lease model, under which the vehicle ownership, maintenance, fuel and driver costs are the responsibility of the private operator.