Delhi Brings Back Double Decker Buses After 35 Years

Transport Minister Confirms Revival of Iconic Buses

Delhi Transport Minister Pankaj Singh confirmed on Friday, August 30, 2025, that the government is examining the feasibility of bringing back the iconic Delhi double decker bus to city roads after more than three decades. The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) has begun pilot testing with an electric double decker bus manufactured by Ashok Leyland under their corporate social responsibility initiative.

Electric Avatar of Classic Suvidha Bus

The new Delhi double decker bus represents a modern, eco-friendly version of the beloved "Suvidha Bus" that served Delhi residents from the 1970s until 1989. Unlike their diesel predecessors, these new buses are completely electric and air-conditioned, measuring 4.75 meters in height and 9.8 meters in length with seating capacity for over 63 passengers - nearly three times that of regular DTC buses.

Key Features of New Double Decker Buses:

• Height: 4.75 meters
  
• Length: 9.8 meters
  
• Passenger Capacity: 63+ passengers (excluding driver)
  
• Power Source: Fully electric with zero emissions
  
• Design: Modern air-conditioned buses with stairs connecting both levels
  
• Color Scheme: Planned to run in orange color like cluster service buses
  

Testing and Route Planning Challenges

Currently, only one Delhi double decker bus is stationed at the Okhla depot for testing purposes. Transport Minister Pankaj Singh explained that officials are carefully mapping routes to ensure safe operation, stating: "There are concerns regarding the height and weight of the bus and how easy or difficult it will be to manoeuvre them in Delhi traffic".

The main challenges include:

• Height restrictions from low flyovers and overhanging tree branches
  
• Electric wire clearance along various routes
  
• Traffic management in Delhi's congested areas
  
• Battery performance for longer routes due to increased weight
  

Historical Context: From Suvidha to Modern Times

The Delhi double decker bus has a rich history in the capital. The original "Suvidha Bus" service operated successfully from the 1970s until 1989, when they were phased out due to the transition to CNG buses and changing traffic conditions.

Previous attempts to revive double decker services included:

• 2010: Plans during Commonwealth Games that didn't materialize
  
• 2022: Consideration during G20 Summit preparations
  
• Tourist Services: Limited "Delhi Darshan" and "Hop On Hop Off" buses for sightseeing
  

Future Expansion Plans

If the pilot testing proves successful, the government plans significant expansion of the Delhi double decker bus fleet. The Convergence Energy Services Limited has allocated 100 electric double decker buses as part of a broader procurement of 1,500 electric buses for Delhi.

This initiative aligns with Delhi's ambitious electric mobility goals, as the city currently operates over 3,500 electric buses and aims to exceed 6,000 by year-end. The Delhi double decker bus project will complement the revival of "Delhi Darshan" tourist services with new circuit routes planned for visitors.

Public Response and Nostalgia

The announcement has sparked excitement and nostalgia among Delhi residents who remember the original Delhi double decker bus services. Many social media users have expressed enthusiasm about the return of these iconic vehicles, though some have raised practical concerns about fare pricing and infrastructure compatibility.

The Delhi double decker bus revival represents more than just transportation - it's a blend of nostalgia with modern sustainable mobility, potentially offering a unique solution to the capital's public transport needs while maintaining the charm that made these buses beloved decades ago.

What's Next

Officials are currently conducting detailed route surveys and safety assessments before the Delhi double decker bus can begin regular passenger service. The success of this pilot project will determine whether Delhi's streets will once again witness the distinctive silhouette of double decker buses navigating through the capital's evolving urban landscape.