Delhi electric bus expansion takes centerstage in budget 2024-25
The budget for 2024-25 includes a significant investment of Rs 510 crore for the Delhi Electric Bus Expansion initiative, demonstrating the city’s commitment to sustainable public transport.
Summary
– Delhi Electric Bus Expansion: Rs 510 crores allocated to procure 1,900 new e-buses
– Free Bus Travel for Women: Rs 340 crores have been allocated for “pink slip passes”
– Mohalla Bus Service: 2,080 electric buses will be introduced by March 2024
Delhi’s public transport system is set for a major overhaul as the government allocates Rs 510 crore for electric buses in its budget for 2024-25.
Finance Minister Atishi announced during her budget presentation on Monday.
“At present, Delhi boasts a fleet of 7,582 buses, catering to the daily commute of over 41 lakh passengers. To further bolster this fleet, a concession agreement has been inked for the procurement of 1,900 new e-buses,” said Atishi, highlighting the city’s commitment to sustainable transportation.
To enhance accessibility and affordability for women commuters, the minister also proposed an allocation of Rs 340 crore to continue the scheme of free bus travel for women in Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and cluster buses through “pink tickets.”
Another significant aspect of the budget was the emphasis on the mohalla bus service, aimed at providing seamless last-mile connectivity.
“The Kejriwal government has taken a bold step by committing to procure 2,080 nine-meter e-buses for the Mohalla bus service,” announced Atishi. “By 2025, Delhi will witness a remarkable shift towards electric buses, with 80% of the fleet being electric.”
However, despite the ambitious plans, some initiatives from the previous budget failed to reappear.
These include the proposed e-scooter sharing service in Dwarka, the development of three international-standard inter-state bus terminals (ISBTs), and the plan to modernize 1,400 bus queue shelters (BQS) with digital screens and passenger information systems (PIS).
The announcement is a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions and combating air pollution in the national capital.
With the Delhi electric bus expansion plan taking center stage, the city is poised to embrace sustainable and eco-friendly public transportation solutions.
This move underscores the government’s commitment to revolutionizing Delhi’s public transport landscape and paving the way for a greener, cleaner future.
