Delhi is set to reintroduce double-decker buses on its roads with the launch of an electric tourist sightseeing service later this month, marking the return of the iconic vehicles to the capital after more than three decades. The service is expected to commence around 20 February, coinciding with the first anniversary of the current Delhi government.
The initiative will begin with two electric double-decker buses manufactured by Ashok Leyland. The buses will operate on a dedicated heritage sightseeing circuit covering key landmarks across central Delhi, including Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, the National War Memorial, Bharat Mandapam, the new Parliament building, Kartavya Path, and Dilli Haat.
The service is planned as an evening tour, with operations likely to begin after 6 pm once regular museum visiting hours conclude. This timing will allow tourists to view illuminated monuments across Lutyens’ Delhi, offering a distinct sightseeing experience.
The electric double-decker buses have been manufactured by Ashok Leyland under a corporate social responsibility initiative and have been handed over to the Delhi government’s tourism department by the transport department. The air-conditioned, open-top buses are designed to offer passengers clear, elevated views of heritage sites, enabling comfortable sightseeing and photography.
Each bus measures 9.8 metres in length and 4.75 metres in height and can accommodate more than 63 passengers. An on-board guide will be available on every trip to provide commentary on the historical and cultural significance of landmarks along the route.
The fare structure has been set to ensure affordability, with tickets priced at ₹500 for adults and ₹300 for children aged between six and twelve years.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta had earlier announced in her budget speech that the Delhi government would introduce a dedicated tourist circuit focused on national monuments. Double-decker buses were once a familiar feature in the city, operated by the Delhi Transport Corporation as ‘Suvidha’ buses before being phased out in 1989 due to fleet ageing.
The new electric double-decker service aims to enhance Delhi’s tourism offering while promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly urban transport for both domestic and international visitors.
