Following the successful integration of electric buses into its fleet, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is gearing up to deploy two electric double-decker buses on the streets of Thiruvananthapuram. This groundbreaking project, a first for Kerala, is part of an initiative to encourage public transportation and alleviate the traffic burden caused by private vehicles. Smart City Thiruvananthapuram is funding the venture, with each double-decker estimated to cost around Rs 1.10 crore.
Scheduled to commence operations in January, the buses will be incorporated into the city’s circular services. KSRTC currently runs approximately 110 electric buses as part of its city circular service and plans to augment the fleet with an additional 50 e-buses and two e-double deckers in the coming months. The introduction of double-deckers is viewed as a pilot project, and based on feedback and success in Thiruvananthapuram, KSRTC intends to extend the service to Kozhikode City. KSRTC officials anticipate that the colorful double-deckers will attract more riders, following the positive response to electric city circular buses. Mumbai has already successfully implemented electric double-decker buses. The ridership has increased from 50,000 to 70,000 daily since the introduction of e-buses, and KSRTC aims to reach a target of 1 lakh riders.
Looking ahead, KSRTC plans to introduce electric buses in Ernakulam city and is exploring advanced services for riders, including a tie-up with the ‘Chalo App’ for seamless booking and tracking. An automated ticketing system and a real-time bus tracking mobile app are slated for launch by January. The Chalo App, successful in various other states, will contribute to enhancing the overall commuter experience.
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