Is Delhi CM's Ambitious Plan for a Fully Electric DTC Bus Fleet by Next Year Achievable?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Delhi aims to have a fully electric DTC fleet by next year.
- 100 new electric buses have been introduced.
- The initiative supports pollution control efforts.
- Interstate electric bus service launched.
- Zero incidents of stubble burning recorded this winter.
New Delhi, Dec 18 (NationPress) In a significant move towards sustainable transport, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta unveiled the addition of 100 new electric buses to the fleet on Thursday. The government's vision is to transition all DTC buses to electric by next year, aiming to render the public transportation system entirely free of emissions.
The Chief Minister stated, “We are committed to implementing long-term and effective strategies for pollution management in Delhi. The introduction of these 100 e-buses marks a major step in this direction.”
She further remarked, “Our target is to ensure that by next year, every DTC bus will be electric, paving the way for an emission-free public transport system in Delhi. We are consistently progressing towards this vision,” as she shared on X.
Additionally, an interstate electric bus service has been inaugurated, connecting Dhaula Kuan in Delhi to Dharuhera in Haryana.
“Our government has revived an interstate bus service that had been inactive for many years. These modern e-buses will significantly cut down pollution levels and ensure that commuters traveling between Delhi and NCR have a safe and comfortable journey,” she said.
Earlier, CM Gupta highlighted that the city has experienced zero incidents of stubble burning this winter, showcasing a remarkable achievement of the government’s pollution control initiatives.
She mentioned that in 2025, approximately 7,000 acres were used for paddy cultivation, yet due to the dedicated efforts of the government, there were no recorded incidents of stubble burning.
This success is attributed to the collaboration between the Agriculture Unit of the Development Department and the Environment Department, ongoing monitoring, and the active involvement of farmers.
The Chief Minister acknowledged that the decline in air quality during winter poses a serious challenge for Delhi, with stubble burning being a significant contributor.
In response, the Delhi Government has rigorously enforced the ‘Winter Action Plan’ in alignment with the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) guidelines.