Thiruvananthapuram: Open double-decker buses aimed at attracting tourists will be launched by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) in Thiruvananthapuram soon. The services are planned in the evening. The service, named ‘night riders’, would be subsequently introduced in Kochi, Kozhikode and Palakkad also.
The service in the state capital will start in the evening and cover all major destinations in the city. Later, the open bus would travel to Kovalam and return to the city after some time. KSRTC authorities said that the service could be conducted after midnight also if there is sufficient demand.
At present, work is underway at the workshop of KSRTC to convert four old buses into open double-decker carriages. Rain-proof seats and speakers are among the facilities introduced in the vehicles. There are plans to attach a foldable roof also to enable trips during rains.
“The fare will be Rs 250 per person. Soft drinks and snacks will be provided to travellers,” said a KSRTC official. Moreover, special tours will be arranged for students during vacations, he added.
Several cities abroad and Indian metros such as Mumbai and Delhi already conduct open double-decker services for tourists.
