In a historic move for Pakistan's largest city, double-decker buses have rolled back onto the streets of Karachi for the first time in over sixty years. This revival marks the return of an iconic transit symbol, now powered by modern, imported vehicles.
A Nostalgic Revival with Modern Comfort
The launch ceremony for the new fleet was officiated by Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon and Provincial Minister for Local Government Syed Nasir Hussain Shah. The buses, part of the People's Bus Service, are high-capacity, air-conditioned vehicles manufactured by China's Higer Bus Company Limited. This initiative fulfills a government pledge to introduce these buses by December 2025.
The last regular service of its kind in Karachi dates back to the late 1950s and early 1960s, when British-style double-deckers operated on major routes like the famous Route 48 between Jama Cloth Market and Keamari. The new fleet represents a significant technological and comfort upgrade from those historic models.
Boosting Karachi's Mass Transit Network
This addition is set to strengthen Karachi's burgeoning public transport system. The existing People's Bus Service already carries approximately 1.5 million riders daily across the city. When integrated with the Orange Line and Green Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems, which serve an extra 75,000 commuters, officials project the expansion could benefit up to 100,000 more passengers.
The provincial government has outlined an ambitious plan for the future of urban mobility:
- Rolling out additional double-decker lines on major city corridors in 2026.
- Expanding electric bus services across Karachi and the wider Sindh province.
Affordable and Appealing Public Transport
A key goal of the initiative is to make modern transit accessible to the masses. According to reports, the service will feature subsidized fares alongside the comfort of air-conditioned travel. This combination is strategically designed to make public transport a more attractive and affordable option for Karachi's vast population.
The return of the double-decker is more than just a new bus route; it is a blend of Karachi's rich transit heritage with a forward-looking vision for a modern, efficient, and people-friendly transportation network.
