New Delhi: Double-decker buses can be seen on Delhi’s roads once again after more than three decades. Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) is going to trial these electric double-decker buses under a pilot project to check how effective and safe these buses are on the roads of the capital.
First Bus Parked At Okhla Depot
According to the information, vehicle manufacturer Ashok Leyland has prepared an electric double-decker bus under the CSR scheme, which is currently parked at Okhla depot. Soon this bus will be run for trial on some selected routes. After the success of this model, there is a plan to bring two more buses.
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Caution In Route Selection
Delhi Transport Minister Pankaj Singh said on Friday that the government is working seriously on this plan. Officials are selecting routes where there are no obstacles like height of trees, electric wires and flyovers. According to the traffic, it is also being seen how practical the operation of these buses will be.
Design And Capacity
The length of the new double-decker bus is about 9.8 meters and the height is 4.75 meters. It can seat more than 63 passengers including the driver at a time, which is three times more than a normal bus. However, its high height and weight remain a challenge. Therefore, initially, the battery and operation capacity will be assessed by running them on short routes.
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Past Efforts And Future Plans
Double-decker buses used to run as “Suvidha Bus” in Delhi till 1989. Later they were replaced by CNG buses. Attempts were made to bring them back during the Commonwealth Games in 2010 and the G20 Summit in 2022, but could not succeed. Now this plan is being activated again with electric technology.
E-Buses Are Expanding Rapidly
At present, more than 3,500 electric buses are running in Delhi and by the end of the year this number can cross 6,000. Also, two new tourist circuit buses named ‘Delhi Darshan’ will also be launched.