Kochi: Kochi is set to launch a double-decker bus service aimed at enhancing the tourism experience starting next month. The open-top buses will run along MG Road, from Madhava Pharmacy to Fort Kochi.

Transport Minister KB Ganesh Kumar announced plans to roll out a KSRTC double-decker bus similar to the successful models currently operating in Thiruvananthapuram. He stated that the initiative could be implemented within the next two months. The minister emphasized that riding atop the bus would provide an enjoyable way to view the city and expressed confidence in the service’s potential success in Kochi. To begin, the focus will be on transforming a double-decker bus based in Angamaly into an open-top version tailored for tourism.

The existing bus, which previously operated on the Angamaly-Thoppumpady route, has been deemed unprofitable, prompting the need for this transformation. Kochi Mayor M Anil Kumar highlighted that double-decker buses already operate successfully in Thiruvananthapuram and Munnar, the latter featuring transparent glass sides. He requested the minister to consider bringing a double-decker bus to Kochi, to which the minister agreed to expedite the process.

Minister Kumar made this announcement during a meeting focused on the launch of a mobile application at the CSML office in Kochi.