Mumbai
After 86 years of serving commuters in Mumbai, the iconic non-air-conditioned double-decker BEST buses are officially retiring from service. The last of the five such buses plying on certain routes in south Mumbai will be retired, followed by a few open-deck double-decker tourist buses scheduled for retirement on October 5. However, to continue the tradition of double-decker buses in the city, the BEST (Brihanmumbai Electricity Supply and Transport) has introduced 16 air-conditioned, electric double-decker buses, with closed doors, on a few routes. An additional 18 of these buses will be added to the fleet in phases over the next few months. The non-air-conditioned double-decker buses have been a Mumbai icon since their introduction in 1937, 11 years after the launch of BEST bus services in the city. These buses were known for their spacious double decks, with a tiny curving staircase leading to the upper deck. They became popular for both long and short rides, with teenagers often rushing to secure front-row seats on the upper deck. Over the years, the number of double-decker buses in the city gradually decreased, and now only five remain. This decision to retire them is in line with the plan to phase out buses that are 15 years old and replace them with a new fleet for environmental, safety, operational, and commercial reasons. While the non-air-conditioned double-decker buses are being retired, Mumbai will still have air-conditioned electric double-decker buses to provide commuters with an updated and eco-friendly option for their travels.
