LUCKNOW, June 1 -- The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) launched its AC electric double-decker bus service between Lucknow and Ayodhya in October 2025 amid much fanfare, hoping it would become a preferred travel option. However, the service has struggled to attract passengers, with most commuters continuing to prefer conventional buses despite the scorching summer and comparatively lower fares offered by the double-decker service.

According to transport officials, the biggest challenge facing the service is its considerably longer travel time. While regular buses and other modes of transport cover the 150-km stretch between Lucknow and Ayodhya in about 2.5 to 3 hours, the electric double-decker buses take nearly 4....