Kolkata Mini Bus Photo Frame (Medium)

The Howrah–Naktala mini bus route (often associated with S112) has faced significant reductions in service post-COVID-19, with many private operators struggling or stopping services. While formerly a reliable 20-hour, all-night service, the route has been crippled by high operational costs and competition from Metro rail, leading to its decline and potential shutdown. Kolkata’s iconic yellow-and-green mini buses were introduced in the late 1970s, specifically starting around 1978–1980, as a private-run initiative to navigate narrower city roads and bridge gaps in public transport not covered by larger, state-run buses. These smaller, 12-14 seater, 2-axle vehicles became crucial for rapid, direct connectivity, often operating with distinctive lateral seating arrangements.