Heritage or junk? Row erupts over non-AC double-deckers in South Mumbai

A BEST double-decker parked and forgotten near JJ Junction. Pic/Sayyed Sameer Abedi

Mumbai marks 100 years of motor buses this July, but a debate has erupted over what to do with the old non-AC double-decker buses. Once iconic on Mumbai's streets, three retired buses have been parked under the JJ Flyover in Nagpada and repurposed as a café, library, and art gallery. They are now being described by residents as junk and a nuisance in an already congested area.

Inside the double-decker, seen through a dusty window. Pic/Rajendra B Aklekar

Placed as part of a 2021 beautification drive, the buses, formerly from Marol depot, had completed 15 years of service before being handed over to the BMC's B Ward. Authorities spent Rs 69.23 lakh converting them into public exhibits, but the installations have largely failed. The buses remain locked, vandalised, and covered in dust, drawing criticism from locals and traders who say the buses block pedestrian paths, parking spaces, and emergency access.

The BEST double-decker parked under JJ flyover. Pic/Sayyed Sameer Abedi

Bus enthusiasts argue the authorities mishandled the project, repainting the buses in a shade they claim is unfaithful to their heritage. "If maintained properly, we are willing to buy them and run them on tourist circuits in South Mumbai," said bus fan Shubham Padave. The row highlights a tension between preserving city heritage and ensuring practical urban management in congested areas.

About the bus

Buses location
Pydhonie Junction - Cafeteria
Near Minara Masjid - Library
JJ Junction - Art Gallery

Bus history

Retired from Marol depot
Served 15 years in public service

Inside the bus, seen through a dusty window. Pic/Rajendra B Aklekar

Contractor issue

>> Bus enthusiasts allege poor restoration work
>> Incorrect shade of red used on buses
>> Design said to ignore Mumbai bus identity

Fan appeal

Shubham Padave: Offer to buy buses
Plan to run them on tourist circuits

Residents speak

Ruhan Shaikh, Mohammed Ali Road
"At first it was novel, now it's just a red wall blocking parking and space."

Yusuf Khatib, Pydhonie
"Heritage is fine, but locals can't even walk freely; the buses block the street."

Rangraj Khatu, Nagpada
"We respect old BEST buses, but a library or café under a flyover looks abandoned."

Atmaram Gholap, Mohammed Ali Road
"If it were a moving museum, fine. Here, it blocks traffic, loading, and emergency vehicles."