Delhi is bringing back double-decker buses this month, this time as a special tourism service connecting some of the capital’s most popular attractions.
Add informalnewz.com as a Preferred Source
Delhi Double Decker Bus: As part of a new initiative to revitalize tourism in Delhi, double-decker buses are set to return. This time, these buses will operate not as regular public transport, but as a dedicated tourist service, connecting the capital’s major tourist attractions.
Delhi’s double-decker tourism service to launch in February
Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra announced that the double-decker bus service will launch in February. This initiative is aimed at strengthening the capital’s tourism infrastructure.
According to officials, two double-decker buses may initially hit the roads around February 20th.
Special focus on evening tours
This service is primarily designed for evening tours.
According to an official, “Since museums close at 6 p.m., the tour will begin after 6 p.m. and then continue to other major landmarks.”
This will benefit tourists who prefer to explore the city in the evening.
Double-Decker Bus Route and Key Destinations
According to the Tourism Department’s plan, the bus service will begin at the Prime Minister’s Museum and cover several key landmarks in Central Delhi.
Proposed Route
Prime Minister’s Museum — Bharat Mandapam — National War Memorial — New Parliament House Complex — Delhi Haat. This route will allow tourists to experience the capital’s historical, cultural, and nationally significant sites in a single trip.
Electric Bus, a CSR Facility
This double-decker bus is electric and manufactured by Ashok Leyland.
The bus has been made available under a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.
This bus was previously stationed at the Transport Department’s Okhla depot, but has now been handed over to the Tourism Department.
Officials say the bus can comfortably navigate Lutyens’ Delhi without any technical issues, with no obstructions from overhead wires or low-lying tree branches.
Capacity, Furnishings, and Onboard Guide
The double-decker bus can seat over 63 passengers, excluding the driver.
The bus will be decorated with images of prominent Delhi landmarks, such as India Gate, Signature Bridge, and Bharat Mandapam. A tour guide will also be present on each trip, explaining the historical and cultural significance of each stop.
Fare and Age Group
- Adult Fare: ₹500
- Children 6 to 12 years: ₹300
This fee has been determined taking into account the overall tour experience, guide services, and sightseeing information.
Emphasis on Heritage Tours, Not Priority for Shopping Zones
Officials also discussed the possibility of tours centered on markets and shopping hubs, but have decided to focus on historical and heritage sites for now.
They believe the double-decker bus experience is more suitable for heritage tourism.
Double-decker buses will return for the first time since 1989
Double-decker buses, once a common sight on Delhi’s roads, were operated as “Suvidha” buses by the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC).
However, due to their aging fleet, these buses were discontinued in 1989.
Now, nearly three decades later, these iconic buses are set to return to Delhi’s roads with a new identity and a new purpose: this time to showcase the city, not just provide rides.
Read More: BCCI announces Harshit Rana’s replacement, this fearsome bowler enters Team India
