September 1, 2025 — Delhi is set to see the return of its iconic double-decker buses after more than three decades. The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) is preparing a pilot program to test all-electric double-decker buses on select city routes. The original double-decker buses were phased out in 1989.
The revival comes as part of Delhi’s broader push towards sustainable public transportation. Advances in electric vehicle technology have made it feasible to consider large electric buses capable of navigating the city’s congested roads. Transport Minister Pankaj Singh said authorities are evaluating operational feasibility, including clearance under overpasses, tree canopies, and road maneuverability.
The prototype electric double-decker, built by Ashok Leyland under a corporate social responsibility initiative, is stationed at the Okhla Bus Depot. With a height of 4.75 meters and length of 9.8 meters, it can seat over 60 passengers, nearly three times the capacity of the standard 9-meter DEVI buses currently in service.
DTC officials are closely monitoring the pilot program to assess safety and performance in real traffic conditions. If successful, the buses could be deployed on high-density routes, helping reduce overcrowding while providing an eco-friendly alternative to diesel buses.
This move aligns with Delhi’s goal of fully electrifying its public transport system by 2026. Earlier this year, 400 new electric buses were added to the city fleet, with another 401 planned for mid-2025. By the end of the year, the total number of electric buses in Delhi is expected to reach approximately 5,500, including both small and large vehicles.
The reintroduction of double-decker buses not only revives a part of Delhi’s transport heritage but also strengthens the city’s commitment to cleaner, greener urban mobility. Officials hope the initiative will pave the way for wider adoption of electric buses in the coming years.
