Why Are Double-Decker Buses No Longer Common in India?

Double-decker buses, once a common sight in certain parts of India, are now a rarity in the contemporary urban landscape. This decline can be attributed to several key factors that have emerged over the years, including safety concerns, urban infrastructure issues, operational costs, passenger demand, and regulatory changes.

Factors Contributing to the Decline of Double-Decker Buses

Safety Concerns: Double-decker buses, due to their higher center of gravity, are inherently more prone to tipping over, particularly on narrow or uneven roads. This safety risk has raised major concerns among both passengers and operators. Ensuring the safety of commuters is of paramount importance, and the added risk associated with double-decker buses has likely contributed to their reduced usage.

Urban Infrastructure: The adaptability of double-decker buses in Indian cities has been hampered by the current urban infrastructure. Many Indian cities feature roads that are not built to accommodate larger vehicles. Additionally, the increasing traffic congestion and the need for wider roads and improved infrastructure have made it operationally challenging for double-decker buses to operate efficiently. As cities have evolved, the demand for more modern and efficient transportation solutions has led to the phasing out of these buses in favor of smaller vehicles and alternative modes of transport.

Operational Costs: The maintenance and operational costs of double-decker buses are often higher compared to their single-decker counterparts. This includes higher fuel consumption, more pronounced wear and tear, and the necessity for specialist drivers. These increased costs can strain both public and private transport organizations, making them less economically viable in the long run.

Passenger Demand: As urban transport needs have evolved, many cities have shifted towards more flexible and efficient transportation options. Smaller buses, auto-rickshaws, and ride-sharing services have become increasingly popular due to their adaptability and cost-effectiveness. This shift in passenger preferences has further reduced the demand for double-decker buses.

Regulatory Changes: Changes in public transport regulations and policies have also played a role in the decline of double-decker buses. Evolving transportation norms and safety standards have sometimes made it difficult to operate these larger buses, leading local authorities to phase them out in favor of more modern and safer vehicles.

Current Status and Prospects

While double-decker buses remain iconic in cities like Mumbai, their usage on a larger scale has become highly limited. In Bengaluru, for example, the use of double-decker buses was restricted to specific routes on straight and wide roads, but even there, the buses were considered too inefficient in terms of fuel consumption and maintenance. Consequently, they were phased out.

In the early 20th century, double-decker buses were available in all major metros, imported from England, and they ran in selected routes. However, as the cities expanded and traffic issues became more pronounced, the unsuitability of double-decker buses became more apparent. The construction of flyovers, underpasses, and the presence of low-slung power lines made the operation of double-decker buses problematic. The roads in many cities had to be up-graded to accommodate larger vehicles, and the lower profile of these buses was no longer deemed advisable.

Conclusion

The decline of double-decker buses in Indian cities is a complex issue influenced by a combination of safety, infrastructure, cost, and policy factors. As the transportation landscape continues to evolve, it is likely that double-decker buses will remain a niche feature, primarily used for tourism or specific routes, rather than the primary mode of public transportation.