Delhi Government Delays Launch of 330 Electric Buses Due to Mourning for Pope Francis
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Synopsis
The launch of 330 electric buses by the Delhi government has been postponed in light of national mourning following the death of Pope Francis. A new date will be announced soon as officials emphasize the importance of this initiative for cleaner transport.
Key Takeaways
- Launch of 330 electric buses postponed.
- Delay due to national mourning for Pope Francis.
- New launch date to be announced by Chief Minister.
- Buses aim to enhance public transport and reduce pollution.
- Initial operations from Ghazipur, Nangloi, and East Vinod Nagar depots.
New Delhi, April 22 (NationPress) – The Delhi government has decided to delay the introduction of 330 electric buses as a sign of respect during the national mourning for the late Pope Francis. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced that a revised date for the launch under the Delhi Electric Vehicle Interconnector (DEVI) initiative will be revealed shortly.
In a post on the social media platform X, CM Gupta stated, “Due to the national mourning declared by the Government of India following the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, the launch of the electric buses under the DEVI scheme has been postponed. A new date will be confirmed soon.”
The unveiling of the new fleet of nine-metre eco-friendly mini-buses was set to mark a significant advancement in transforming the public transport system in the national capital and combating pollution.
The now-delayed launch was expected to be attended by Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav.
Prior to the decision to postpone, CM Rekha noted in a social media message, “On this #EarthDay, we are embarking on a transformative journey towards a greener future with the launch of 330 new electric buses under the #DEVI initiative...”
“This is our earnest endeavor to ensure that Delhi’s transportation becomes cleaner, safer, and more sustainable for future generations. Join us as we commemorate this historic achievement. Your support is vital—together, let’s drive Delhi towards a greener and healthier tomorrow!” she added.
The green-colored buses, previously suggested to be called ‘Mohalla Buses’ by the earlier AAP administration, will soon be operational. These buses have been undergoing trial runs on several routes for the past few months.
On the eve of the postponed launch, Delhi Transport Minister Pankaj Singh confirmed that the free travel service for women would continue on the new buses, which will adhere to the fare structure of the existing larger 12-metre buses.
The mini-electric bus service, named DEVI, aims to provide relief to residents in congested areas, as these mini-buses can navigate easily on narrow streets. Each DEVI bus is designed to accommodate 23 passengers seated and 13 standing.
With routes capped at 12 km and a charging duration of under an hour, the DEVI buses, inspired by the feeder buses of Delhi Metro, are expected to transport commuters from interior roads to broader arterial routes serviced by the longer 12-metre buses operated by Delhi Transport Corporation.
Officials have indicated that the initial batch of DEVI buses will commence operations from the Ghazipur, Nangloi, and East Vinod Nagar depots.
