NOT A SMOOTH RIDE - Benz buses too costly for comfort

NOT A SMOOTH RIDE - Benz buses too costly for comfort
BENGALURU


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The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation is still considering the pros and cons of the luxury service introduced between the two cities in June. Initially it had intended to extend the trial runs to Chennai and Mumbai as well

If you have enjoyed the luxury service on Mercedes-Benz buses between the city and Mysore during the past four months when they were on a trial run, and are looking forward to more of the same in future, you may have to wait a while.
The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation is still considering the pros and cons of the luxury service introduced between the two cities in June this year. Initially it had intended to extend the trial runs from Bengaluru to Chennai and Mumbai in addition to Mysore and to give special training to the drivers of the buses at a centre in Pune.

There were also plans to serve light snacks on board the buses that are equipped with full air suspension, ergonomically designed executive passenger seats, twin-LCD screens, four emergency exits and other features of international standards. But over the last few months the corporation has realised that MercedesBenz buses, which cost Rs 65 lakh each, may just be a little too much for its budget. It also appears unsure about how popular the service will turn out to be considering the high fare passengers will have to pay for a three hour journey.

Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, KSRTC director (operations), K.A. Rajkumar said the MercedesBenz service was still being run only on a trial basis.

"The organisation officials are in the process of assessing the response to the service from the public and also the performance of the bus. Once we are satisfied with these aspects, we will negotiate a better price for the buses and run them between Mysore and Bengaluru," he said.