Updated On: 17 September, 2023 07:38 AM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. Aklekar
The BEST’s double decker bus, which has been synonymous with the city for over eight decades, made its final ride on Friday evening

One of the first double decker buses of Mumbai. Pic Courtesy/Mumbai Heritage, (right) The old double decker bus on its last rides through the streets of the city on Friday evening
The old sloping bonnet, the bhopu bulb horn, the twirling staircase and the mechanical cord bell - the old and iconic roaring diesel-powered double decker buses with such unique features that had been the mainstay on Mumbai’s roads bowed out gracefully after 86 years of journey on Friday evening amid much fanfare, rue and nostalgia.
“The buses had class and value, and entire generations were its fan club. However, changing times and the need for more modern and efficient transportation options have led to the retirement of these beloved vehicles. Their departure marks the closing chapter of a cherished era, leaving behind a treasure trove of memories. Sitting in a double-decker bus always evoked some of the best memories. The most cherished moments include the thrill of climbing up the narrow spiral staircase to the upper deck, where you`d grab a front-row seat by the large, panoramic window. From that vantage point, the world seemed different, more expansive, and full of possibilities. Watching the cityscape unfold as the bus rolled along, with the wind tousling your hair and the gentle rumble of the engine beneath you, was a unforgettable experience,” said Kunal Tripathi, who runs the popular mumbaiheritage account on social media.