KSRTC’s Classic 1962 Mercedes-Benz Bus Revived After Four Decades

Key Highlights:

• A 1962 Mercedes-Benz bus has been restored and is now displayed at MGM ITI, Rajakumari.
• The bus was restored by a group of Mechanical students over four months.
• KSRTC provided original spare parts to help with the restoration.
• The bus is one of only two of its kind left in India.
• Although mostly restored, the bus hasn't received a road permit yet.

The vintage 1962 Mercedes-Benz bus, which was once a common sight on the highways of Thiruvananthapuram, has been repaired and is currently on exhibition at MGM ITI in Rajakumari.

A team of mechanical students worked tirelessly for nearly four months to bring the KSRTC-owned bus back to life. They looked for spare parts and put them together to restore the bus to its former glory.

This legendary bus, originally built in Germany and assembled in India by TATA, had been out of service since 1978. When MGM ITI won the auction, they transported the bus to their campus with the intention of rehabilitating it. 

The project was difficult, particularly in finding the original spare parts, but the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) stepped in to assist by giving components from outdated buses.

The engine, gearbox, and other components are all German-made, and the bus was previously registered as KLT 5403 with the Travancore State Transport Department. 

KSRTC took over in 1965, and it was re-registered as KLX 604. MGM ITI has since registered it with the Idukki RTO under KLI 3399. Although the restoration is nearly complete, the bus has yet to get a permission to operate on the road.

According to Onmanorama, "This bus is a unique piece of history. Even KSRTC does not own a bus this ancient. We've repaired it for future generations to view and learn from. Biju Isaac, the ITI secretary, revealed that people come from all over to view the bus and snap pictures."

Kuriakose P V, Head of the Mechanical Department, led the project, which involved 24 committed students. The bus's ignition is still driven by a lever on the engine pulley, and the engine is in great shape. However, students are still waiting for steering and braking parts.

According to Kuriakose, there are just two of these Mercedes-Benz buses left in India. The decision to restore it was prompted by ongoing demand from students, communities, and instructors, ensuring that this historic vehicle continues to inspire and educate future generations.

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CMV360 Says

The restoration of this classic Mercedes-Benz bus is a remarkable achievement that highlights the dedication of the students and the importance of preserving history. It’s inspiring to see such efforts to keep a piece of transportation history alive, serving as a valuable learning tool for future generations.