The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to enhance the visitor experience at Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan and Zoo, aka Rani Baug, a popular zoo in the city. It plans to introduce an electric double-decker bus service specifically designed for children. The 53-acre zoo attracts a large number of visitors from across the state.
The bus service will commence in the next six months. The buses will be similar to those seen around shopping centres, providing a fun experience for kids.
Deepak Kesarkar, the city guardian minister, announced this initiative on Wednesday. He instructed the BMC to provide these unique double-decker buses for young zoo visitors.
In a report by Indian Express, Dr. Sanjay Tripathi, the zoo's director, stated that this initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance visitor amenities. The first phase involved introducing battery-operated vehicles, with electric buses being introduced in the second phase.
The zoo plans to roll out four battery-operated eight-seater vehicles within the next two months. These vehicles, costing around INR 45 lakh, will transport visitors from one exhibit to another.
While all visitors can avail of this facility, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities will be the first in line for the bus. These vehicles will be battery-powered, ensuring zero carbon emissions within the zoo premises.
The costs associated with the electric bus service are yet to be determined, as tenders for this service have not been floated yet.