Delhi Government Announces Plans for Fourth Inter-State Bus Terminal

The Delhi government has unveiled plans to establish a new inter-state bus terminal (ISBT) near the Tikri border, aimed at accommodating buses arriving from Haryana. This initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing the capital's transportation infrastructure, with Delhi already hosting three major ISBTs at Anand Vihar, Sarai Kale Khan, and Kashmere Gate. The proposed fourth ISBT is currently in the preliminary phase, with the authorities having identified a suitable plot of land for its development.

Officials highlighted that the construction of an ISBT at the Tikri border would alleviate the pressure on the existing Kashmere Gate terminal. It is anticipated that this new facility will initially support five to six buses, with plans for further expansion to accommodate additional vehicles. This strategic move is not only expected to streamline bus traffic but also to significantly improve commuter convenience.

Furthermore, the establishment of a bus terminal in outer Delhi is seen as a proactive measure to combat air pollution, especially during the winter months when the city grapples with deteriorating air quality. The terminal will serve as a staging area for buses from states that do not comply with the specified environmental norms. In line with efforts to curb pollution, the Delhi government has implemented stringent regulations, mandating that all buses entering the city from Haryana must operate on electricity, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), or Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) compliant diesel. Similar requirements have been extended to buses from select regions in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.

This initiative is part of the broader Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), under which Stage IV represents the final set of measures aimed at controlling air pollution levels in the capital. The decision to restrict entry to non-compliant buses underscores the government's commitment to environmental sustainability and public health. By facilitating smoother traffic flow and enforcing eco-friendly transportation standards, the new ISBT at Tikri border is poised to make a significant contribution to Delhi's urban landscape.