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The bus, which ended its service in 1978, was later auctioned off, and MGM ITI won the bid, bringing the bus to their campus. (Photo: Onmanorama)
This iconic bus, originally manufactured in Germany and assembled in India by TATA, had been out of service since 1978.
A classic 1962 model Mercedes-Benz bus, once a regular sight on the roads of Thiruvananthapuram, has been restored and is now displayed at MGM ITI, Rajakumari.
The bus, owned by KSRTC, was brought back to life by a group of Mechanical students who worked tirelessly for nearly four months. They scoured for spare parts and assembled them to restore the bus to its former glory.
This iconic bus, originally manufactured in Germany and assembled in India by TATA, had been out of service since 1978. When MGM ITI won the auction, they took the bus to their campus with the vision of restoring it. The project was a challenge, especially with finding the original spare parts, but the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) stepped in to help by providing parts from old buses.
The engine, gearbox, and other components are all German-made, and the bus once bore the registration number KLT 5403 under the Travancore State Transport Department. After KSRTC took over in 1965, it was re-registered as KLX 604. MGM ITI has since registered it with the Idukki RTO as KLI 3399. Although the restoration is mostly complete, the bus hasn’t received a permit to hit the road yet.
According to Onmanorama, “This bus is a rare piece of history. Even KSRTC doesn’t have a vehicle this old. We’ve restored it so future generations can see and learn from it. People from different places visit us just to see the bus and take pictures,” shared Biju Isaac, the ITI secretary.
The project was led by Kuriakose P V, Head of the Mechanical Department, along with 24 students who dedicated their efforts to this labor of love. The bus’s ignition is still powered by a lever on the engine pulley, and the engine remains in excellent condition. However, the students are still awaiting parts for the steering and brake.
This Mercedes-Benz bus is one of only two of its kind left in India, according to Kuriakose. The decision to restore it was driven by the persistent demand from students, locals, and teachers, ensuring that this historic vehicle continues to inspire and educate future generations.
