CM Gupta on Tuesday, while reviewing the city’s transport system, laid out key developments that will shape Delhi’s public transport future, and also gave clear instructions to the concerned officials that the safety of passengers must be given utmost priority.
File Photo: IANS
The Delhi government on Tuesday initiated an overhaul of the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) to provide the citizens of the national capital a public transport system which is equipped with world class services.
CM Gupta on Tuesday, while reviewing the city’s transport system, laid out key developments that will shape Delhi’s public transport future, and also gave clear instructions to the concerned officials that the safety of passengers must be given utmost priority.
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During a meeting chaired by CM in presence of the transport minister Dr Pankaj Kumar Singh on Tuesday, detailed discussions were held on proposals to make public transport in the national capital much more convenient, accessible, and safe.
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Under this initiative, smart travel cards will soon be introduced, bus routes are being restructured, interstate bus terminals (ISBTs) will be modernized, and bus queue shelters (BQS) will be redesigned to be more comfortable and high-tech.
Gupta has asserted that with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guidance, the dream of equipping Delhi with world-class public transport will soon be realized.
CM stated that DTC, which is currently running at a loss of Rs 60,000 crore due to alleged mismanagement in the past, will be revitalized and transformed into a robust transport service.
The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Dharmendra, Transport Commissioner Niharika Rai, and other senior officials of the department.
According to CM, the number of both small (DEVI) and large buses is being increased, and the new routes are being strategically planned to enhance accessibility for the commuters.
“Our government envisions DTC as a symbol of excellent transport service in Delhi,” Gupta stated.
One of the major announcements was the introduction of a unified smart card system for all modes of public transport in Delhi, which is going to enable seamless travel across DTC buses, Delhi Metro, and the upcoming Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS).
The CM also announced a special ‘Pink Card’ for women and transgender residents, which will allow them free travel in the state transport corporation’s buses.
Notably, discussions are currently going on with banks to ensure a smooth and foolproof rollout of these cards.
She also shared the current status of the DTC fleet, noting that Delhi operates 660 small electric buses, 1,800 large electric buses, and 1,800 CNG buses.
However, Gupta has acknowledged that many of these buses still operate on outdated routes, limiting their effectiveness in catering to the population.
To address this, the government has collaborated with IIT Delhi to come up with a comprehensive new route plan.
Initially, a pilot project will be initiated in Yamuna Vihar, following which the model will be implemented citywide.
Talking of the ISBTs, such terminals like Kashmere Gate, Anand Vihar, and Sarai Kale Khan will be revamped to provide airport-like amenities, ensuring passenger comfort, safety, and accessibility.
Transport minister has said that Delhi is working to upgrade all bus depots and terminals to support the expanding electric fleet, ensure efficient charging and maintenance infrastructure and also improve facilities for drivers and passengers alike.
He highlighted that the DEVI bus service, operating in densely populated regions, is receiving excellent public feedback.
Singh emphasized that transforming the department into a revenue-surplus, efficient organization is a top priority, and it is speeding up route rationalization to connect more people to the public transport network.
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