Kannur: The Thalassery double-decker bus that once stirred excitement among locals and tourists has now halted services due to declining passengers. The bus that was generally seen in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram was brought to the city in February. After a month since its grand inauguration on February 22 by Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar and Speaker A.N. Shamseer, the bus has seen a steady decline in the number of passengers. 
 
The bus that was brought to Thalassery to popularise the Thalassery Heritage Tourism Project had active passengers during the Thalassery Carnival, but the passenger count went low after the first week of March.
 
As per sources, the bus that was intended to promote tourism currently operates only for pre-arranged trips to popular tourist destinations. The service can only be availed of if the minimum passenger count is met, which is 40. The per-head ticket price is Rs. 250, and the trips are planned to start at 2:30 pm and reach the final destination at 8:30 pm.
 
The journey that starts from Thalassery Depot offers scenic views of historic landmarks, including the Gundert Bungalow in Illikunnu, the court, Overbury's Folly and Thalassery Fort, before arriving at Mahe Gopalpetta route. 
 
The return trip covers St. Teresa's Shrine Basilica Church, Mahe Riverside Walkway and Muzhappilangad Beach. 
 
It has been learned that the scorching heat has affected travel widely. The threat continues during the rainy season, as it may affect those seated on the open-air top deck.
 
The bus can accommodate passengers comfortably, with the lower deck providing seating for 28 individuals and two tables, while the upper deck provides seating for 21 passengers. Currently, only three or four passengers are availing of the bus service. 
 
Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) authorities have also expressed their willingness to resume operations if the minimum passenger count is met.