CDA plans double-decker buses to promote tourism in Islamabad

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is working on a plan to introduce double-decker electric buses in Islamabad as part of efforts to promote tourism in the capital.

The proposal is still at an early stage. The authority has approached Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT) to conduct a feasibility study and provide cost estimates for procuring the buses.

The CDA will decide the next steps after receiving input from HIT.

According to officials, the authority hopes to make the service operational within three months if the plan moves ahead as expected.

Four buses proposed for 25km city tour

The initial proposal includes four double-decker buses.

The buses would operate on a 25-kilometre tourist route starting from F-9 Park. The proposed tour would cover several of Islamabad’s major attractions, including Faisal Mosque, Lok Virsa and Shakarparian.

The idea is to give residents and visitors a convenient way to see several important sites during a single city tour. The proposed buses would also be electric, making the planned service part of the capital’s wider shift towards environment-friendly public transport.

CDA awaits feasibility study

The CDA has not yet finalised the procurement method or the source of the buses. A CDA official said the authority was waiting for input from HIT before making a final decision.

“Nothing is final yet; we may go for importing buses from China. We are waiting for input from HIT,” the official said.

The authority will consider the feasibility study and estimated costs before moving forward with procurement. The possibility of importing buses from China is also under consideration. The final decision is expected to depend on technical and financial recommendations.

Existing electric bus service already operating

The proposed tourist service would be added to an existing electric bus network in Islamabad.

The CDA currently operates electric buses through a contractor on more than 20 routes across the capital. The existing fleet has more than 160 electric buses. The service has attracted a large number of passengers and has become part of Islamabad’s public transport system.

CDA information published earlier this year said 160 electric buses were operating in Islamabad, with around 125,000 citizens using the service daily at that time. The authority also said the electric bus network was operating on 21 routes and that the service was being expanded to improve public transport facilities.

Electric buses support greener transport

The proposed double-decker buses would add a tourism-focused service to Islamabad’s existing electric transport network. Electric buses can help reduce dependence on conventional fuel-powered vehicles and support efforts to reduce transport-related emissions.

Also Read: Maryam Nawaz launches green electric bus service in Multan

CDA has already described its electric feeder buses as environment-friendly and has linked the expansion of electric transport with efforts to improve the city’s environment. The authority is also working on other environmentally friendly transport projects in the capital.

Tourist attractions could get easier access

The proposed route could make it easier for visitors to travel between some of Islamabad’s well-known tourist locations.

F-9 Park is one of the capital’s major recreational spaces, while Faisal Mosque is one of the city’s most recognised landmarks. Lok Virsa and Shakarparian are also important cultural and recreational destinations.

A dedicated tourist bus could allow visitors to cover these locations without having to arrange separate transport for each stop. However, details such as fares, operating hours, frequency and the exact route have not yet been finalised.

CDA has also explored tram service

The double-decker bus proposal comes as the CDA continues to explore different options for improving public transport in Islamabad.

The authority has previously discussed introducing a tram service in the capital. In January 2026, the CDA said a feasibility study for an electric tram project would be conducted to examine the possibility of developing the service.

The tram project has yet to become operational. The latest double-decker proposal therefore remains subject to feasibility work, procurement decisions and other approvals.