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The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) has handed over its sole electric double-decker bus to the Tourism Department, which will deploy it for the Delhi Darshan tour service, citing logistical challenges that prevent its use on regular city routes. This marks the return of double-decker buses to Delhi’s roads, now serving as a tourist attraction rather than part of the regular city transport network.
The 4.75-metre-tall, 9.8-metre-long bus can seat 63 passengers, nearly three times the capacity of the city’s standard nine-metre DEVi (Delhi Electric Vehicle Interconnector) buses. The bus will operate exclusively for sightseeing, offering visitors a unique way to explore the city.
DTC officials explained that narrow lanes, weight restrictions, and height constraints make regular commuter services impractical for such a large vehicle. The size of the bus, while advantageous for sightseeing, poses difficulties for daily operations within the city’s dense road network.
The tourism circuit offers a more feasible environment for the double-decker. Officials are carefully mapping routes, measuring tree canopies, and checking overbridge clearances and overhead wires. Since the bus will make only one or two trips per day along designated tourist paths, it avoids the challenges of heavy urban traffic.
Originally supplied as a pilot vehicle to the transport department, the electric bus has now been directly allocated to the tourism department. This decision allows Delhi to showcase sightseeing experiences while circumventing the logistical hurdles that prevent its integration into regular public transport.
The Delhi Darshan circuit offers multiple thematic routes covering historical monuments and bustling markets, managed by the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and HOHO Bus services. One circuit focuses on landmarks like the Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, and Qutub Minar, while another explores markets such as Chandni Chowk, Connaught Place, and Khan Market. Tours use air-conditioned buses, including high-deck and electric models, with trained guides providing historical insights. Accessibility is ensured for wheelchair users and differently-abled passengers. Ticketing is straightforward, with set fares for conducted tours, making the service convenient for both domestic and international visitors. The flexible tour models, including Hop On Hop Off options, allow tourists to explore Delhi at their own pace.
Several iconic modes of transport are being revived across India, from Delhi’s double-decker buses and Bombay’s BEST red double-deckers to Kolkata’s yellow Ambassador taxis and heritage trams.
Delhi’s iconic double-decker buses, once known as "Suvidha buses," were a familiar sight on city streets until their retirement in 1989. They were gradually phased out as the fleet aged and the city transitioned to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, while also facing operational challenges such as low bridge clearances.
What is the new role of Delhi’s electric double-decker bus?
The bus will operate exclusively for the Delhi Darshan tourism circuit, offering sightseeing tours rather than serving regular city commuters.
Why is the bus not being used for regular city routes?
Logistical challenges such as narrow lanes, weight and height restrictions make it impractical for daily public transport services.
Who is operating the double-decker bus now?
The bus has been handed over by the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) to the Tourism Department.
What does this development signify for Delhi’s roads?
It marks the return of double-decker buses to Delhi after decades, now as a tourist attraction rather than part of the city’s standard transport fleet.
What is the purpose of introducing this bus for tourism?
The initiative aims to provide a unique sightseeing experience, enhance Delhi’s tourism offerings, and showcase modern electric public transport technology.
