The 'City of Dreams' has been introduced with India's first electric AC double-decker bus! Coming at the right time, just before the summer of 2023, now Mumbaikars can travel comfortably in the heat. The electric bus was inaugurated by the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport Undertaking (BEST) on February 13.
Whilst the BEST buses have started operations from February 21, Tuesday between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) keeping in mind eco-friendly, cheap, and convenient travel to the commuters.
All you need to know about the AC double-decker bus in Mumbai
According to News18, the BEST has been made by a start-up called Switch. The company built the first British-made pure electric buses for London. By the end of the year more 200 such buses will be received. The new electric buses are equipped with facilities like digital ticketing, CCTV cameras, live tracking, digital display, and a panic button for emergencies, among others. The buses are also noiseless, which will make the day to day journey peaceful.
Lokesh Chandra, General Manager, BEST, said, “Fulfilling the vision of green and clean mobility of PM Shri Narendra Modi, procurement of these buses is done under the National Clean Air Program (NCAP). With an attempt to make public transport in Mumbai at par with global standards, these electro double-decker AC buses will provide world-class travel experience to Mumbaikers.”
How do you purchase tickets?
The ticket purchase will be digital for which commuters must either purchase the Chalo smartcard or download the Chalo app.
"It is simple to select the journey and just tap the mobile on the machine at the entry door (front) and tap once again while alighting during exit (rear). The money gets deducted online from the e-wallet UPI or online payment linked with the app," said BEST general manager Lokesh Chandra.
Mumbai Double-Decker E-Buses Timings
The first and last buses leaving from CSMT leave at 8.45 am and 4 pm, respectively, and 12.20 pm and 7.40 pm, respectively.
The first bus will leave NCPA at 9.02 am and return at 4.20 pm, while the last bus will depart at 12.40 pm and 8 pm.
This bus will be used for the "Heritage Tours" on the weekends.
Mumbai double-decker electric buses fare
You can buy the ticket through the Chalo app or a smartcard. Passengers using the bus will have to pay Rs. 6 for the first five kilometres.
While the cost of the A-115 route is Rs. 6 for a 5-kilometer trip, the cost of the Heritage Tour's upper deck is Rs. 150, and the lower deck is Rs. 75.
Other bus routes with four to five more buses to come to include CSMT to the Gateway of India, Kurla to BKC, and Bandra East.
As an incentive, the Chalo app offers a 17% discount on two tickets for the same day. The bus comes with CCTV cameras and automatic doors and can be fully charged in 80 minutes.
So are you planning to commute on these new electric buses in Mumbai? They are certainly a great addition to the City and will make every day life a tad easier.
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