Tourism – Electric Double-Decker Bus Draws Weekend Crowds Across Delhi

Tourism – Nearly a month after the introduction of Delhi’s electric double-decker bus service, the initiative has begun to attract steady interest, particularly among those looking to explore the capital in a unique way. Since its launch in late February, close to 800 passengers have boarded the open-top bus, enjoying elevated views of some of the city’s most prominent landmarks.

Rising Interest Among Weekend Travelers

Officials have observed that the service sees a noticeable surge in passengers during weekends. This trend suggests that the bus is becoming a preferred choice for leisure outings, especially among families, tourists, and residents seeking a relaxed city tour. The curated route, combined with the novelty of the double-decker format, appears to be contributing to its growing appeal.

An official associated with the project noted that while weekday ridership remains moderate, weekend participation has been consistently strong. The gradual increase in awareness is also helping the service gain traction beyond tourists, drawing interest from local residents as well.

Launch and Inaugural Journey

The service was formally introduced at the end of February, with Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta flagging off the buses a day before public operations began. The inaugural ride included senior officials and covered a route from Rafi Marg to the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, offering a preview of the experience to stakeholders.

The launch marked an effort by the tourism department to promote eco-friendly travel while enhancing the city’s tourism offerings. The use of electric buses aligns with broader sustainability goals, while the double-decker design adds a distinctive element to conventional sightseeing options.

Route Covers Key Landmarks

The bus follows a fixed route that connects several well-known locations in central Delhi. Passengers are taken past important sites such as Bharat Mandapam, the National War Memorial, the new Parliament building, and Dilli Haat, among others. This carefully planned circuit allows travelers to experience a mix of cultural, political, and recreational landmarks in a single journey.

Officials explained that the route was designed to provide both convenience and a comprehensive overview of the city’s central district. The upper deck, in particular, offers unobstructed views, making it especially appealing for photography and sightseeing.

Plans for Evening Tours

To expand the offering, the tourism department is working on introducing evening tours. The proposed route has largely been finalized, with minor adjustments expected before rollout. These tours are likely to begin from the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, considering its closing time in the early evening, and will then proceed to other destinations along the route.

The addition of evening services is expected to attract a different set of travelers, including those interested in experiencing the city’s illuminated landmarks. It may also help distribute passenger flow more evenly throughout the day.

Growing Role in Urban Tourism

The early response to the double-decker bus suggests that such initiatives can play a meaningful role in enhancing urban tourism. By combining sustainable transport with a structured sightseeing experience, the service offers both convenience and novelty.

As awareness continues to grow, officials expect the number of passengers to increase further in the coming months. The introduction of additional timings and potential route expansions could strengthen its position as a regular feature of Delhi’s tourism landscape.