Delhi Government Revives Double-Decker Buses with New Electric Tourist Service
In a significant move to enhance tourism infrastructure, the Delhi government officially launched a new double-decker bus service on Friday. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta personally flagged off the inaugural vehicles, marking a revival of this iconic transport format in the national capital.
Inaugural Ride and Official Participation
Following the formal launch ceremony, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, accompanied by Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra and other departmental officials, experienced the new service firsthand. The delegation took a ride on one of the electric double-decker buses, traveling from Rafi Marg to the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya.
Route and Landmark Connectivity
The Delhi Tourism Department will operate these buses on a fixed route specifically designed to connect major landmarks in central Delhi. According to a senior official, the proposed circuit includes several prominent sites that showcase Delhi's rich heritage and modern development.
Key destinations on the route include:
- Bharat Mandapam
- National War Memorial
- New Parliament Complex
- Dilli Haat
- Other significant cultural and historical sites
The official confirmed that evening tours are also being planned as part of the service. Since the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya closes at 6 PM, these evening tours will begin from the museum before proceeding to other destinations along the circuit.
Service Specifications and Features
The newly introduced double-decker buses have been specifically designed for tourist operations in Lutyens' Delhi. Each vehicle can accommodate over 63 passengers in addition to the driver, providing ample capacity for group tours.
Important design considerations include:
- Electric operation to minimize environmental impact
- Height optimization to avoid issues with overhead wires and low tree canopies
- Comfortable seating arrangements for both domestic and international tourists
Fare Structure and Onboard Experience
The tourism department has established a clear fare structure for the service. Adult tickets have been priced at Rs 500, while children between six and twelve years of age can travel for Rs 300. To enhance the tourist experience, each bus will feature a trained guide who will provide detailed briefings about the historical and cultural significance of each location visited during the tour.
Implementation and Historical Context
As part of this tourism initiative, two double-decker buses are planned to be made operational initially. This launch represents a nostalgic revival of a transport format once familiar to Delhi residents. Double-decker buses were previously operated by the Delhi Transport Corporation as 'Suvidha' services before being phased out in 1989 due to the withdrawal of an aging fleet.
The new electric double-decker service aims to combine nostalgic appeal with modern, sustainable transportation solutions, positioning Delhi as a more accessible and tourist-friendly destination while honoring its transportation heritage.
