Surat: Dumas, a popular tourist destination for residents of Surat, has gained a new identity following the recent inauguration of the Dumas Sea Face. Since its opening, a large number of people have been visiting the newly developed seafront.

Keeping the increasing footfall in mind and to improve connectivity to the tourist spot, the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) has decided to operate two double-decker electric buses from Athwa Gate to Dumas Sea Face in the coming days.

At present, around 450 electric buses are running under SMC’s public transport service, and work orders have already been issued for the procurement and operation of 600 additional electric buses.

Considering the growing number of visitors to Dumas Sea Face, the civic body has planned to run two air-conditioned double-decker electric buses on a trial basis for the convenience of both city residents and tourists. A proposal for the purchase of DC chargers and related equipment, along with a 10-year comprehensive annual maintenance contract, was placed before the Standing Committee and was approved just before the term of the elected body came to an end.

Double-decker buses had earlier operated on Surat roads but were discontinued due to technical and operational reasons. The administration has now initiated fresh efforts to reintroduce double-decker buses to improve access to the Dumas Sea Face project and to attract more tourists.

Double-decker buses last seen in Surat in 1996

With the municipal authorities deciding to reintroduce double-decker buses, it is worth recalling that such buses had operated in Surat in the past. These buses were run by the State Transport department, and the last time a double-decker bus was seen on Surat roads was in 1996.

After nearly three decades, the iconic double-decker buses are now set to return to the city once again. DeshGujarat