In a landmark move for urban mobility, the iconic double-decker bus has made a triumphant return to the streets of Karachi, ending a hiatus that lasted for more than six decades. The city's residents welcomed the first batch of these modern, air-conditioned giants, marking a historic revival of a beloved transit symbol.
A Historic Revival Officiated
The formal launch ceremony was officiated by Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon and Provincial Minister for Local Government Syed Nasir Hussain Shah. The ministers inaugurated the new fleet under the People's Bus Service initiative, successfully fulfilling a government pledge to introduce these buses by December 2025. The newly introduced vehicles are Chinese-made buses from the Higer Bus Company Limited, representing a significant technological and comfort upgrade for commuters.
From British Classics to Modern Marvels
The last regular double-decker service in Karachi operated in the late 1950s and early 1960s. During that era, British-style double-deckers were a common sight on major routes, most famously on Route 48 between Jama Cloth Market and Keamari. The new fleet, however, is a world apart. These are high-capacity, fully air-conditioned vehicles designed to offer a comfortable and efficient travel experience in Karachi's challenging climate.
Officials announced that an experimental launch began immediately, with full-fledged public operations scheduled to start officially on Friday. This strategic rollout allows for final adjustments before the service opens to the masses.
Integrating into a Growing Transit Network
The double-deckers join an already robust public transport network in the metropolis. The Sindh People's Bus Service currently carries approximately 1.5 million riders daily across Karachi. This number is supplemented by an additional 75,000 daily commuters using the Orange Line and Green Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems.
The integration of these high-capacity double-decker buses is projected to benefit up to 100,000 more riders, significantly easing congestion and providing a reliable alternative. According to a report by Gwadar Pro, the provincial government's strategy includes subsidized fares paired with air-conditioned comfort, aiming to make public transport both affordable and appealing to a wider population.
Looking ahead, the provincial government has ambitious plans to roll out additional double-decker lines on major corridors in 2026. Furthermore, there is a clear roadmap to expand electric bus services across Karachi and the wider Sindh province, signaling a commitment to sustainable and modern urban transit.
The return of the double-decker is more than just a nostalgia trip; it is a concrete step towards revolutionizing Karachi's public transportation, offering capacity, comfort, and a glimpse into a more connected future for the city's millions of inhabitants.
