Delhis Electric Bus Fleet Expands with 350 New Additions

Delhi has taken a significant step towards reducing pollution and promoting sustainable transportation by adding 350 new electric buses to its public transport system. The buses, flagged off by the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister, bring the total number of electric buses in the city to 1,650.

In a significant move towards combating pollution and promoting sustainable transportation, Delhi has added 350 electric buses to its public transport fleet. The addition of these buses brings the total number of electric buses in the city to 1,650, making Delhi the first city in India and the third globally with the most e-buses.

Flagging Off Ceremony

The flagging-off ceremony for the new electric buses was held on Wednesday, February 14, 2023, and was graced by Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The event took place at the Capital's latest eco-friendly destination, DDA's Baansera at Sarai Kale Khan.

Strengthening the Fight Against Pollution

Both Saxena and Kejriwal emphasized the importance of these electric buses in strengthening the fight against pollution in Delhi. They highlighted that out of the 350 buses, 300 have been added to the cluster bus fleet, while 50 have been integrated into the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) fleet.

Central Government's Support

Saxena acknowledged the Central government's support in providing 900 electric buses out of the total 1,650 under the FAME-II Scheme. This initiative aims to mitigate vehicular pollution in Delhi and establish a robust green public transport infrastructure in the city.

Enhanced Passenger Safety and Convenience

The new electric buses are equipped with advanced features to ensure passenger safety and convenience. They are low-floor buses, making them easily accessible for all passengers. Additionally, they are equipped with GPS, CCTV cameras, panic buttons, and other facilities to enhance passenger safety.

Delhi's Transition to Electric Buses

Saxena highlighted Delhi's transition from diesel and petrol-run Blue Line buses to CNG buses and now to electric buses. He expressed the government's commitment to gradually replacing CNG buses with electric buses in the bus fleet to further reduce pollution.

Considering Free Travel

When asked about the possibility of making travel free for everyone, Chief Minister Kejriwal responded that the government would consider the suggestion.

Press Conference by Transport Minister

Later in the day, Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot addressed a press conference, providing further details about the electric buses and their impact on pollution reduction. He emphasized that the more electric buses there are on Delhi's roads, the less pollution there will be.

Impressive Statistics

Gahlot shared impressive statistics regarding the performance of electric buses in Delhi. Since 2022, 1,300 electric buses have covered a distance of 5.8 crore kilometers, resulting in a reduction of 47,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions in the city.

Future Plans for Delhi's Bus Fleet

Gahlot revealed that Delhi's bus fleet currently consists of 7,582 buses, with plans to expand it to 10,480 buses in the future. He added that the aim is to have 80% of the fleet comprised of electric buses, with the current percentage standing at 22%.

Mohalla Bus Update

Regarding the much-anticipated Mohalla Bus service, Gahlot stated that people will have to wait a bit longer as the process involves prototype development, testing, and certification. He assured that continuous meetings are being held with stakeholders, and he expressed hope that within the next 15 to 20 days, some buses will be added under the Mohalla Bus Scheme and dedicated to public use.

The addition of 350 electric buses to Delhi's public transport system is a significant step towards reducing pollution and improving air quality in the city. With the continued support of the Central government and the commitment of the Delhi government, Delhi is well on its way to becoming a leader in sustainable transportation and green public infrastructure.