Mumbai, Nov. 9 -- Gujarat has launched an AC Vista Dome Coach bus service at the Statue of Unity through a joint initiative of the Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) and Gujarat Tourism. The initiative is intended to give visitors a more engaging view of the state's natural landscapes, historical heritage and cultural attractions.
Five exclusive buses have been manufactured for the initiative, reportedly for the first time in India in accordance with international standards. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first service at the Statue of Unity and travelled on board one of the buses.
The buses feature transparent sky-view dome roofs that allow passengers to observe the surrounding scenery from air-conditioned cabins. Each bus can carry 23 passengers and has revolving, fully adjustable reclining seats, along with a separate seat for the driver.
Passenger amenities include a premium LED smart television, closed-circuit television cameras, a coffee and tea-making machine, a mini refrigerator and mobile charging facilities. Safety equipment includes an advanced fire detection and suppression system, toughened glass and emergency hammers.
The exteriors carry graphics showing major Gujarat attractions, including the Statue of Unity, Akshardham, Somnath Temple, Dwarka Temple, Gir National Park, Adalaj Stepwell, the White Rann of Dhordo, the Tarnetar Fair and Vijay Vilas Palace. Each bus costs Rs. 21.9 mn, while two of the five planned buses have been inaugurated so far.
The remaining three buses are scheduled to be inaugurated within the next two months. Passengers can book tickets through the GSRTC website, while similar services are planned in phases for other tourist destinations and heritage routes across Gujarat. The service is designed to make the journey itself part of the tourism experience for visitors from India and abroad.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Construction World.