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BMTC plans to induct 10 double-decker AC electric buses marking the return of double-deckers on Bengaluru roads

Bengaluru will soon see the return of double-decker buses on city roads as the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation(BMTC) is planning to induct air conditioned double decker electric buses. As many as 10 such buses will be inducted by the BMTC.

TN City Desk

Updated Sep 15, 2022, 20:22 IST

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Photo : PTI

Bengaluru: The Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) is planning to induct 10 double-decker AC electric-buses. With this, double-decker buses will return on Bengaluru roads after several years.

After the 1970s-80s, the double-decker buses may once again become a daily sight in Bengaluru. Double decker buses were phased out from the city by 1997.

However, the operation of double-decker buses may face some challenges. As per officials, narrow roads, flyovers, overhead electricity lines, telecom cables and tree branches can hider the movement of these buses. Additionally, the poor condition of roads is also a concern.

The induction of environment-friendly electric AC double-decker buses is being done under the Rs 140 crore sanctioned for BBMP (Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagar Palike) by the Union ministry of environment, forest and climate change under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).

Acording to BBMP odfficials, the Central government has released Rs 140 crore under the 15th finance commission grants for air quality improvement for 2021-2022.

The Centre also allocated Rs 20 crore towards the electrification of 15 bus depots for e-buses inducted under the FAME scheme (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles).

Of the Rs 140 crore, Rs 10 crore has been dedicated towards five double-decker e-buses.

BMTC officials said they are planning to buy these five e-buses and are in talks with the Directorate of Urban Land Transport (DULT) seeking funds for another five other such buses.

"We are planning to purchase a total of 10 AC electric double-decker buses. Of the 10, amount has been sanctioned for five. We are also in the process of identifying the routes. They are likely to be operated on Outer Ring Road and other peripheral roads/outskirts since aerial clearance is required," said BMTC director (IT) AV Surya Sen, as reported by the Times of India.

As per sources, the first electric double-decker bus is likely to be deployed on 500D (Central Silk Board-Hebbal) route, the report added.

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