PUNE: They were last seen on our roads more than 20 years ago, but double-decker buses may be making a comeback in Pune.
According to sources, the PMPML is considering a fleet of these vehicles. Discussions are still in the early stages, but a big boost has been the recent decision by the state to give Mumbai's BEST 800 electric double-deckers.
A PMPML official told TOI, "Last month, representatives of a company met with senior officials here for talks. The officials asked about electric double-decker buses and wanted to know why the service was shut down in the first place. More talks are set to take place."
The PMPML's joint managing director Chetna Kekure said the transport body is thinking of adding these buses to the fleet. "There is thought along these lines," Kekure told TOI.
Double-decker buses can provide high seating capacity while occupying the same space as regular buses. And with the addition of electric power plants, they could also be less damaging to the environment. The PMPML runs 150 regular-sized e-buses.
The PMPML official said, "The chief minister is particularly interested in the project so the PMPML too has been giving it serious thought. But running a double-decker bus is not easy. Many things need to be decided, including the routes."
Another source from PMPML said, "The initial plan with the double-deckers is to let a company operate them; the PMPML will provide infrastructure and routes. The vehicles will need special routes to ensure they don't get into problems or importantly, accidents."
Commuters in the city, meanwhile, are excited.
Sanjay Shirole, member of the PMP Pravasi Manch, said, "I once travelled from Hadapsar to Swargate on these buses and found the service helpful. They can carry almost double the number of passengers."
