Delhi To Get Over 1,000 Electric Buses In March: Transport Minister

Transport Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh on Saturday announced that Delhi will get around 1,000 electric buses this month. He emphasised the importance of improving public transport to reduce reliance on private vehicles.

Pankaj Singh said the BJP-led government will enhance the transport sector over the next six months. The focus will be on making public transport more efficient and accessible.

Electric Buses to Boost Public Transport

The minister highlighted that Delhi lacks sufficient electric buses. "Delhi does not have enough electric buses, and we will bring more," he said. The arrival of these buses is expected to significantly improve public transport, contributing to a cleaner city.

In an interview, Singh mentioned that the transport sector currently faces a loss of Rs 235 crore. However, he assured that a recovery plan is in place to address this issue. The introduction of electric buses is just the first step in strengthening Delhi's transport network.

Phased Reforms for Better Accessibility

Pankaj Kumar Singh outlined a phased approach to reforms. "In the first phase, we will focus on immediate and essential reforms," he explained. The second phase will involve major projects aimed at enhancing public transport efficiency and accessibility.

The government's vision includes modern and environmentally friendly mobility solutions. Increasing the number of electric buses aligns with this goal, offering a greener alternative for commuters in Delhi.

Extension of Electric Vehicle Policy

Meanwhile, Delhi's Electric Vehicle (EV) policy from 2020 has been extended multiple times due to air quality concerns. Former Chief Minister Atishi announced that subsidies and road tax exemptions would be reinstated for EVs purchased from January 1, 2024.

"Electric vehicles purchased on or after January 1, 2024, will now receive subsidies and road tax exemptions," Atishi claimed during a press conference on November 28, 2024. This decision aims to encourage more people to opt for electric vehicles.

The latest extension of the EV policy lasts until March 31, 2025.