Islamabad: CDA to launch double-decker bus service soon

[Naveed Yaseen]

Islamabad: Capital Development Authority (CDA) has planned to launch a double-decker bus service for local as well as foreign tourists to facilitate them enjoying the green beauty particularly on top of the Margalla Hills.

“We are deliberating to initiate a bus service for the tourist who would be able to visit all attractions of the federal capital in a two-level bus,” a senior CDA official said.

Double-decker buses are widespread for long-distance while double-decker city buses are very less common; however, they are very popular in some cities of Europe and in parts of Asia.

He said presently, due to absence of such a service, the tourists have to face difficulties in the federal capital. They either have to visit on their own conveyance or bank upon the public transport or taxis.

It is unfortunate that the city fathers could not launch any transport service for picnic points including Lake View Park, Shakarparian, Daman-e-Koh and Pir Sohawa and the visitors have to arrange their own conveyance against heavy cost.

The official said the authority would shortly float tenders to hire local or multinational firm for the launch of the bus service what, he said, has not yet been introduced in the country for tourism purposes.

He said as the double-decker service would be launched merely for tourists, the would-be hired firm would be responsible to employ drivers specialised in driving for sight-seeing at the mountains and other tourist points.

He said as per international standards, the buses would have semi-glassed body to make the visitors enjoy the cloudy and rainy weather on the hilltops.

The official said once launched, the bus service would also reduce growing traffic congestion on the hilly road as well as other attractions, also putting positive impacts on city’s environment.

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