Double Decker Bus

Commemorative Postage Stamp Series

The Double Decker Bus is one of the most iconic symbols of urban public transport in India. Recognized for its unique two-level design and high passenger capacity, it has played a significant role in strengthening mass mobility in major metropolitan cities. As part of the Commemorative Postage Stamp Series on Indian Transport, the Department of Posts has beautifully depicted the Double Decker Bus to honour its contribution to urban transportation.

Emergence in India

Double Decker Buses were introduced during the British colonial period, primarily in major cities such as Mumbai and Kolkata. Designed to carry more passengers without occupying additional road space, these buses became a practical solution for densely populated urban areas.

Over time, they evolved into cultural landmarks of the cities they served, especially Mumbai, where the red double decker bus became an enduring symbol of the city’s vibrant life.

Design and Utility

The key feature of a Double Decker Bus is its two passenger decks, connected by an internal staircase. This structure allows:

• Increased passenger capacity
• Efficient utilization of road space
• Comfortable urban commuting

The upper deck offers a panoramic view of the city, making it a favourite among commuters and tourists alike.

Role in Urban Mobility

Double Decker Buses have contributed significantly to:

• Reducing congestion by carrying more passengers per trip
• Providing affordable public transport
• Supporting daily commuting for office-goers, students, and workers
• Strengthening organized city transport systems

Although modern transport systems such as metro rail have expanded rapidly, the double decker bus remains a nostalgic and historical symbol of organized road transport in India.

Philatelic Significance

The commemorative postage stamp featuring the Double Decker Bus, included in the 20-stamp Indian Transport series issued in five miniature sheets, celebrates this distinctive mode of public transport.

For philatelists and transport enthusiasts, this stamp represents not only a vehicle but an era of expanding urban infrastructure and innovative solutions to mass mobility. It stands as a tribute to the enduring legacy of the Double Decker Bus in India’s transport history.