New Delhi: The plan to introduce double-decker AC buses in Noida and Greater Noida has faced delays as authorities continue to struggle with route-related technical problems.
The government had allotted eight double-decker AC buses to the Noida depot to strengthen public transport connectivity between Noida, Greater Noida, and Greater Noida West. Officials had proposed that the buses would run on a route connecting Noida to Surajpur and further up to Pari Chowk. However, the service has not begun because authorities have not finalised a suitable route.
Transport department officials said several operational challenges emerged during route assessment. These issues have forced authorities to delay the launch of the service.
Route design problems delay rollout
According to officials, double-decker buses require different road conditions compared to regular buses. Their height and turning radius create difficulties on several stretches of the planned routes.
Officials said underpasses, overhead power lines, and narrow road turns have created obstacles. Areas near Pari Chowk service road and Knowledge Park do not offer enough turning space for such large vehicles. In some places, the height of the buses also clashes with existing infrastructure.
Because of these limitations, authorities have not approved any final route for the buses so far.
Fresh survey planned
Noida Regional Manager Manoj Singh said the transport department will review the routes again before starting operations.
“Noida Regional Manager Manoj Singh said the transport department will now conduct another survey of alternative routes to identify roads where the buses can operate smoothly.”
Officials believe that identifying a suitable corridor will allow the buses to operate without safety risks or infrastructure problems.
Commuters wait for better connectivity
Residents in Noida, Greater Noida, and Greater Noida West had welcomed the announcement of the new buses. Many believed the service would improve connectivity and make daily travel more comfortable.
However, the continued delay has disappointed several commuters who expected the buses to begin service earlier this year.
Deepankar, a resident of Greater Noida West, said the buses were expected to start running in January, but operations have still not begun. He added that people in Greater Noida West are eagerly waiting for the service.
Imran Khan, a resident of Surajpur in Greater Noida, said he has to travel daily to Delhi’s Pari Chowk by tempo or e-rickshaw. With summer approaching, he said AC double-decker buses on this route would make travel much easier and provide better facilities at a lower fare.