Sir,
When I read the news about KSRTC’s red Volvo buses being retired from service on Mysuru roads, I suddenly felt nostalgic about the rides I enjoyed travelling in them especially during Dasara season. I would walk up to Vontikoppal from Yadavagiri, hop on to any Volvo going to City Bus Station and enjoy looking out of the wide windows at the trees, gardens and quaint buildings and shops as the driver leisurely manoeuvred the streets.
And returning would be no problem because I could choose any of the Volvos, fondly called the ‘Red Beauty’ by commuters and pick a convenient seat and wait happily, watching the conductor cajole passengers to come in, as many would wait for the ordinary bus to arrive.
The low broad steps to enter and get off, broad aisles, comfortable seats and, of course, the AC, music system and destination displays were an added attraction for many like-minded commuters. A dedicated service the ‘Red Beauty’ buses gave all of us from 2011. Farewell Red Beauty! People like me will really miss you as you make way for the eco-friendly electric buses.
- Indira Ganapathy, Yadavagiri, 11.4.2026
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