
Thu May 29 03:45:04 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Visakhapatnam, India is poised to enhance its tourism offerings with the introduction of double-decker bus services. The Greater Visakhapatnam Smart City Corporation Limited (GVSCCL), in collaboration with the Tourism Department, plans to launch a “hop-on, hop-off” service along the scenic Beach Road from RK Beach to Bheemunipatnam. This initiative follows a donation of a double-decker bus by the Ashok Leyland Group and the allocation of the bus to Visakhapatnam by IT and HRD Minister Nara Lokesh. GVSCCL is procuring two additional buses using CSR funds. The service will include both open-top and closed-top buses to cater to various weather conditions and tourist preferences. The proposed route covers key tourist attractions, with future expansion planned for other locations.
**News Article:**
**Visakhapatnam to Get Double-Decker Tourist Buses by Summer 2025**
**VISAKHAPATNAM, INDIA – May 29, 2025** – Tourists visiting Visakhapatnam will soon have a new way to explore the city’s stunning coastline, thanks to an innovative double-decker bus service. The Greater Visakhapatnam Smart City Corporation Limited (GVSCCL), in partnership with the Tourism Department, is planning to launch a “hop-on, hop-off” service along the picturesque Beach Road stretch from RK Beach to Bheemunipatnam.
The initiative received a significant boost with the donation of a double-decker bus from the Ashok Leyland Group. IT and HRD Minister Nara Lokesh, recognizing Visakhapatnam’s burgeoning tourism potential, ensured the bus was allocated to the city.
Building on this momentum, GVSCCL is procuring two additional buses using Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds. Tenders for the purchase have already been issued, with proposals due by May 31st.
“This new service will provide tourists with an innovative and flexible way to explore the city’s tourist attractions,” stated Chief Engineer G. Siva Prasad Raju. “A tourist can board the bus at RK Beach, disembark at Tenneti Park, and then hop onto another bus to reach Rushikonda, all at their own pace.”
The fleet will consist of both closed-top and open-top buses to accommodate local weather conditions and tourist preferences.
The initial route will encompass a string of popular tourist spots including the Kursura Submarine Museum, Visakha Museum, Kailasagiri Ropeway, Tenneti Park, Jodugullapalem View Point, Rushikonda Beach, and Erra Matti Dibbalu. Future expansions may include destinations like the Simhachalam temple and One Town.
Authorities are still finalizing the routes and fare structures, but the launch of this double-decker bus service promises to be a significant boost for Visakhapatnam’s tourism sector.