The iconic red-and-green double-decker buses that once defined Delhi’s public transport system are set to return in a new avatar, reviving memories for those who remember Delhi in the 1980s when passengers eagerly rushed to secure seats on the upper deck to enjoy the breeze and sweeping views of the city. (News18 Hindi)

After nearly four decades, the Delhi government is reintroducing double-decker buses as part of a heritage tourism initiative, combining nostalgia with modern technology. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta is scheduled to flag off the heritage tourist service from Vijay Chowk on Friday, February 27, marking what officials describe as a new chapter in the city’s transport and tourism history. Vijay Chowk has been selected as the launch site because it offers a panoramic view of Kartavya Path and the Central Vista. (News18 Hindi)

Unlike the diesel-powered buses of the past, the new fleet is fully electric and forms part of the government’s sustainable mobility plan. The zero-emission buses are designed to operate quietly while reducing pollution levels in the city. (News18 Hindi)

The buses feature an open-top upper deck, allowing tourists uninterrupted views of Central Vista and prominent national landmarks. Officials say the service is intended not merely as transport but as a curated tourist experience showcasing Delhi’s heritage. (News18 Hindi)

The buses carry the slogan “Ek Nai Dilli, Ek Naya Anubhav” (A New Delhi, A New Experience) and are painted in colours inspired by the tricolour. Their exterior panels display images of prominent landmarks, including India Gate, Parliament House, Bharat Mandapam, the Delhi Secretariat, Yashobhoomi and the Lotus Temple, presenting the service as a visual symbol of the Capital. (News18 Hindi)

Each trip will include a guided tour, with trained guides providing commentary on the historical and cultural significance of key locations along the route. The service will operate as a closed-circuit tour beginning at the Prime Ministers’ Museum and covering major Central Delhi landmarks. The route will include Kartavya Path, the National War Memorial, Bharat Mandapam, the new Parliament complex, Delhi Haat, Vijay Chowk and the India Gate area. (News18 Hindi)

The Delhi government has fixed ticket prices at Rs 500 for adults and Rs 300 for children between six and twelve years of age. The fare includes the guided tour. (News18 Hindi)

Bookings are expected to open soon through the DTC and Delhi Tourism mobile applications as well as ticket counters. The buses will operate both morning and evening tours, with the evening service scheduled to begin around 6 pm to allow visitors to experience the illuminated Central Vista after museum hours. While a hop-on-hop-off model has been discussed, the service will initially operate on a fixed circuit. (News18 Hindi)

Double-decker buses were first introduced in Delhi during the 1960s and 1970s as part of the Delhi Transport Corporation’s regular services. The distinctive buses operated on major routes connecting Chandni Chowk, Connaught Place and ITO and became a familiar part of everyday life in the city. The services were gradually discontinued between the late 1980s due to rising maintenance costs, safety concerns, accidents and operational difficulties on narrow roads where overhead wires and trees posed obstacles. (News18 Hindi)

Now returning after nearly four decades in a modern electric form, the double-decker buses will function exclusively as a tourist service rather than a daily commuter option. Officials say the initiative aims to attract both domestic and international visitors, promote sustainable tourism and strengthen Delhi’s image as a global destination. (News18 Hindi)