The Delhi government’s ambitious “Mohalla Bus Yojana” (Neighborhood Bus Scheme) is on the verge of becoming a reality, with the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) likely to sign a contract for electric buses within this week. This initiative, which was announced in the 2023-24 Delhi Budget, aims to improve last-mile connectivity in congested or narrow lanes by deploying small, easily maneuverable 9-meter electric buses.
Procurement of Electric Buses
According to sources, the authorities are poised to ink contracts with e-bus manufacturers either this week or in the following week. The delivery of these buses is expected to take three to five months.
Focus on Last-Mile Connectivity
Delhi’s Transport Minister, Kailash Gahlot, emphasized that strengthening last-mile connectivity is a top priority for the government. He stated, “We have held several consultations and even formed a committee. I will personally hold meetings with legislators and councillors to gain firsthand experience. We are also planning to organize public consultations in various areas. Following these consultations, we will finalize the service routes.” These buses will run at a moderate pace in neighborhoods, allowing people to easily reach nearby metro stations, markets, or hospitals.
Expanding Feeder Bus Services
Under the leadership of Arvind Kejriwal, the Delhi government plans to purchase over 2,000 feeder buses to operate on routes where 12-meter buses cannot reach. In May, a technical committee was formed by the Transport Minister to make decisions regarding the routes and operational specifics of the new bus scheme.
Route Survey and Feedback
The committee has completed route surveys based on public feedback. An official stated, “Now, the survey data is being correlated with population figures, the basic road infrastructure, and road widths in these areas.”
The “Mohalla Buses” will be specially designed for areas with narrow roads or high congestion where regular 12-meter buses cannot easily operate.
As Delhi takes this significant step towards enhancing its public transport system, residents can look forward to more accessible and convenient commuting options in the near future.
Important Information Table:
| Project Name | Mohalla Bus Yojana (Neighborhood Bus Scheme) |
|---|---|
| Initiative Goal | Improve last-mile connectivity in congested or narrow lanes with small, easily maneuverable 9-meter electric buses |
| Bus Procurement | Contracts for electric buses to be signed within this week |
| Delivery Timeline | Expected delivery of buses in three to five months |
| Government Focus | Strengthening last-mile connectivity is a top priority |
| Feeder Bus Expansion | Over 2,000 feeder buses to be purchased to reach areas inaccessible to 12-meter buses |
| Route Survey | Completed based on public feedback; Data correlated with population figures and road infrastructure |
With these initiatives, Delhi aims to provide more efficient and convenient public transportation options to its residents, particularly in areas where traditional buses face operational challenges.
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