KSRTC Unveils Open-Top Electric Double-Decker Bus in Kozhikode

Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has launched a new open-top electric double-decker bus service in Kozhikode, designed to give tourists and residents a unique city sightseeing experience. The service was inaugurated by P. A. Mohamed Riyas, Minister for Public Works and Tourism in Kerala. Dubbed a modern, eco-friendly solution, the bus aims to showcase Kozhikode, also known as the “City of Literature,” in a panoramic and comfortable way.

Bus Features and Capacity

The electric double-decker bus, manufactured by Switch Mobility, has a total seating capacity of 64 passengers, with 36 seats on the open upper deck and 28 seats on the lower deck. The upper deck allows passengers to enjoy unobstructed city views, while the lower deck provides an economical and comfortable travel option. This addition strengthens Kerala’s efforts in sustainable urban transport and tourism promotion.

How to Book

Passengers can book their seats online, via phone, or using the KSRTC app. Online bookings are made through the KSRTC portal by searching for the Kozhikode city sightseeing service, selecting a preferred date and trip, and completing payment. Phone reservations can be made at the KSRTC Kozhikode terminal, while app users can book through the EnteKSRTC Neo-OPRS mobile application.

Route and Timings

The bus covers approximately 16 kilometres, starting from the KSRTC Mavoor Road Terminal. Major stops include Mananchira Square, Kozhikode Beach, Sarovaram Biopark, Arayidathupalam Bridge, Francis Road, Kothi Bridge, Lions Park, Gandhi Road, and Butt Road. The service runs daily from 3:00 PM to 10:30 PM with five trips per day, each lasting about 1 hour and 20 minutes. The upper deck fare is ₹200 per passenger, while the lower deck costs around ₹100.

Safety and Preparations

Before regular operations commence, KSRTC has requested the Kozhikode City Corporation to remove low-hanging tree branches at key stops such as Mananchira Square, Sarovaram Road, and Beach Road, which could pose risks to the 4.7-metre-tall bus.

Applications and Benefits

This open-top electric double-decker provides both tourism and urban mobility benefits. Tourists can explore cultural landmarks, seafronts, and bioparks with panoramic views, making sightseeing more engaging. Residents gain a comfortable and sustainable commuting option while reducing reliance on fossil-fuel buses. The service also promotes eco-friendly tourism, showcasing Kerala’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions in public transport. Kozhikode joins other Kerala cities such as Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Alappuzha, and Munnar in offering double-decker sightseeing services.