Kochi: In a first of its kind initiative, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) would deploy luxury AC Double Decker buses on new interstate routes to places like Mumbai and Hyderabad with an eye on business class travelers.
“The upper deck of the bus will have 48 pushback seats while the lower deck with 12 seats will be like that of a mini conference room with plasma TV screens, tables and chemical toilet. We aim business class travelers, say particular sections, besides tourists. They can travel and also hold business meets or recreational programmes,” Antony Chacko, Managing Director, KSRTC, told DC.
Since it’s the first time the premium segment model is being introduced in the country, the tender documents specifically lays down that the onus of getting nod of the Central Motor Vehicle Authority (certification body) lies with the manufacturer.
“Such facility is currently not available in any other transport mode including railways. We focus on sections like Bangalore-Hyderabad or Pune –Mumbai to get the customers. Scania and Volvo bus companies have come forward and the entire process is expected to take six months,” the official said.
The proposal was put forward after the top KSRTC official made a study visit to Brazil.
