The Demise of Double-Decker Buses in Hyderabad: A Review of Operational and Economic Challenges

Hyderabad, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, once boasted a unique mode of transportation - the double-decker buses. However, these iconic vehicles are no longer seen on the city's roads. This article delves into the reasons behind the withdrawal of double-decker buses from Hyderabad and the factors that contributed to their eventual exit.

The Reasons Behind the Exit of Double-Decker Buses

Maintenance and Operational Costs

The main culprits for the demise of the double-decker buses in Hyderabad are the extensive maintenance requirements and high operational costs. These buses, which were operational for more than 25 years, required a significant amount of upkeep. The old fleet necessitated a larger crew of 8 members for regular servicing, compared to the usual 4. Additionally, each double-decker bus needed 2 ticket collectors, whereas a standard bus has only 1. This not only increased the manpower cost but also added to the overall operational expenses.

Feasibility and Traffic Congestion

Another significant factor that led to the phase-out of these buses was the increase in traffic, a direct result of the booming IT industry. With the surge in city traffic, double-decker buses were forced to navigate through congested roads with caution, thereby slowing down traffic significantly. Moreover, at busy junctions, these buses often caused blockages, disrupting the flow of traffic. Given the safety concerns and reduced traffic speed, it was found difficult to justify their continued operation.

Supply and Production Issues

The supply of double-decker buses in Hyderabad faced challenges due to policy changes by the manufacturers. Ashok Leyland, a major supplier of these buses, ceased production in the early 1990s. This not only affected the availability of new buses but also the supply of spare parts, making maintenance a significant challenge. The in-sustained demand, coupled with policy changes, further exacerbated the issue.

Economic Challenges and Financial Strain

During the period around 2003-2004, the Regional Transport Corporation (RTC) of Hyderabad was experiencing severe economic challenges, incurring heavy losses. At this juncture, acquiring new, expensive buses from manufacturers like Volvo or Marcopolo was not a viable option due to the high costs involved. This economic strain further pressured the decision to phase out the double-decker buses.

Security Concerns and Safety Risks

Security was another critical issue that contributed to the withdrawal of double-decker buses. In the late years, these buses faced several unfortunate accidents. Due to their elevated center of mass, they struggled with turns, posing a significant risk in densely populated road conditions. The increased risk of toppling on a side, especially as more overhead wires were installed to support the growing IT population, added to the RTC's concerns.

Moreover, the increasing number of flyovers and metro pillars added to the complexity of operating double-decker buses. These infrastructural changes made it nearly impossible to run these vehicles safely on the city's roads.

In conclusion, a combination of maintenance and operational costs, traffic congestion, supply issues, economic challenges, and security concerns culminated in the phase-out of double-decker buses in Hyderabad. Despite their unique charm and functionality, these vehicles could not adapt to the rapidly evolving transportation needs of the city.