IIT Delhi to soon complete DTC route rationalisation study for DEVi buses

At a review meeting of the Transport Department, Minister Dr Pankaj Kumar Singh on Wednesday emphasised the importance of inclusive and data-driven planning, as well as leveraging the experience of DTC personnel in the ongoing Route Rationalisation exercise for the 9-metre DEVi buses.

“The Route Rationalisation exercise must reflect the on-ground realities of Delhi’s public transport system. By incorporating inputs from experienced DTC drivers, conductors, and depot managers, we can significantly enhance last-mile connectivity and improve the overall passenger experience,” the minister said.

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According to Dr Singh, the DTC staff have experience, and their invaluable expertise will strengthen the route rationalisation study, ensuring that more passengers use eco-friendly public transport to help decongest roads and reduce pollution.

The comprehensive study is being undertaken by IIT Delhi to ensure a robust, data-driven, and optimised redesign of the national capital’s bus network.

The route rationalisation covers 121 routes in the East Zone, 181 routes in the West Zone, and 194 routes in the North Zone, as well as an ongoing exercise in the South Zone.

Highlighting the progress of electric mobility initiatives, the minister noted that DTC’s interstate electric bus services have received an encouraging response from commuters.

Currently, services are operational on key routes, including Delhi–Baraut (Uttar Pradesh), Delhi–Sonipat, Delhi–Dharuhera, Delhi–Panipat (Haryana), and Nanaksar–Ghaziabad Bus Terminal (Uttar Pradesh).

The minister said that the Transport Department is also actively exploring the introduction of bus services to major religious destinations, aimed at providing convenient, affordable, and environmentally friendly travel options for citizens.