A new double-decker bus has arrived as a New Year gift for Thrissur. The trial run of the first double-decker bus service from Thrissur to Puthur Zoological Park has officially begun. The trial service was flagged off by Revenue Minister K. Rajan and Transport Minister K. B. Ganesh Kumar. Several public representatives and officials also took part in the inaugural ride. The bus departed from Ramanilayam, passed through Swaraj Round, Mannuthy and Kuttanellur, and reached the zoological park in Puthur. After a short ride inside the park premises, the bus returned to the city.
The new electric double-decker bus, costing ₹1.5 crore, is expected to start regular service in January. Transport Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar allocated the funds for the project. Electric KSRTC buses are also planned for service at the Puthur Zoological Park.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister K. Rajan said the service will offer people a unique opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of Thrissur city. The Transport Minister added that steps will be taken to relocate overhead cables and power lines to ensure smooth travel. The government will also explore the possibility of including other tourist attractions along the route.
The bus service, named “Thrissur City Sightseeing”, will start from the city, circle Swaraj Round, pass through major parts of Thrissur including Jubilee Mission and Kuttanellur, travel to the Puthur Zoological Park, and return to the city.
This is the first time a top-open double-decker bus is being introduced in Thrissur. Authorities expect the service, along with the opening of the zoological park, to boost tourism in both Thrissur and Puthur.
MLA P. Balachandran, Mayor M. K. Varghese, District Panchayat President V. S. Prince and several other public representatives and officials were part of the inaugural ride.
