On September 15, a piece of Mumbai’s living history will take its final ride. The Mumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) is all set to retire the last five of its iconic red double-decker buses. These beloved buses have been a familiar sight on Mumbai’s streets for over eight decades. This article explores the rich legacy of these buses, the reasons for their retirement, and the heartfelt pleas for their preservation.
The End of an Era:
For more than 86 years, Mumbai’s double-decker buses have been an integral part of the city’s identity. These buses, known for their vibrant red color and distinctive design, have not only served as a mode of transportation but have also become symbols of Mumbai. They have even made cameo appearances in numerous Bollywood movies, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s cultural landscape.
Fading Away:
Once, there were nearly 900 double-decker buses cruising through Mumbai’s bustling streets, but over the years, their numbers have dwindled. High operational costs began to take their toll in the mid-1990s. Since 2008, no new buses of this kind have been added to the fleet. The result? The end of an era, as these legendary vehicles are now being phased out.
The Plea for Preservation:
Amidst the nostalgia and farewells, passionate commuter groups and enthusiasts are making a heartfelt plea to preserve these iconic buses. They have urged both the Maharashtra government and BEST to consider housing a few of these buses at the Anik depot museum for future generations to admire and cherish.
Counting Down to Extinction:
As of now, only seven of these iconic double-decker buses remain in BEST’s fleet, and by October 5, they will also cease to exist in active service. This imminent departure has ignited a sense of urgency among those who wish to see these buses preserved for posterity.
The Legacy Lives On:
While the classic double-deckers may be disappearing from Mumbai’s streets, a new chapter is beginning. BEST is introducing battery-powered double-decker buses to replace the retiring ones. Around 25 of these modern double-deckers have already hit the roads, aiming to offer a greener and more efficient alternative.
Harshad Joshi, a bus enthusiast, shared his sentiments: “As the new double-decker e-buses are air-conditioned, we will miss sitting in the front in the old buses and traveling with the breeze from the open windows on our faces.” This sentiment reflects the nostalgia that these buses evoke among Mumbaikars.
A Plea for Preservation:
“Aapli BEST Aaplyasathi,” a local commuter’s body, has taken the initiative to write to various state officials, advocating for the preservation of these buses to prevent a fate similar to that of the city’s trams. While they await official responses, they stress the importance of preserving these legacy buses, emphasizing that every major city in the world boasts a transport museum, but Mumbai does not yet have one.
As Mumbai bids farewell to its iconic red double-decker buses, it marks the end of a remarkable era in the city’s transportation history. These buses have been more than just vehicles; they have been a part of Mumbai’s soul. While they may no longer ply the streets, their legacy lives on, and there’s hope that a few of them will find a new home in a museum, allowing future generations to appreciate their charm and significance. As the city evolves, these beloved buses will forever hold a special place in the hearts of its people.
