Delhi Government to Unveil 250 Mini-Electric 'Mohalla Buses' DEVI Tomorrow
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Synopsis
Delhi's Chief Minister Rekha Gupta will unveil 250 mini-electric buses named DEVI on April 21. These air-conditioned buses aim to enhance last-mile connectivity and will operate on routes not exceeding 12 km, providing a sustainable transport option for residents.
Key Takeaways
- Launch of over 250 mini-electric buses in Delhi.
- Buses named DEVI for improved last-mile connectivity.
- Free travel for women continues on the new buses.
- Each bus accommodates 23 seated and 13 standing passengers.
- Routes limited to 12 km.
New Delhi, April 21 (NationPress) Marking a significant milestone in Delhi's public transport landscape, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta will officially launch more than 250 air-conditioned mini-electric buses, measuring nine meters in length and named DEVI, on Tuesday to enhance last-mile connectivity for commuters.
The eco-friendly buses, previously referred to as ‘Mohalla Buses’ by the former AAP administration, will commence operations following a delay of approximately six months and a comprehensive trial run spanning a year across multiple routes.
According to Delhi Transport Minister Pankaj Singh, the introduction of these new buses coincides with World Earth Day, and the free travel benefit for women will persist in the new fleet, adhering to the current fare structure.
The mini-electric bus service, officially known as Delhi Electric Vehicle Interchanges (DEVI), aims to provide residents in congested neighborhoods with a fleet capable of navigating narrow streets with ease.
Each DEVI bus will feature 23 seats and accommodate 13 standing passengers.
With routes capped at 12 kilometers in one direction, the DEVI buses are designed to transport commuters from cramped streets to broader arterial roads serviced by the longer 12-meter buses of the Delhi Transport Corporation.
The launch event on Tuesday will be attended by Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav.
The new air-conditioned DEVI buses will commence service from Kushak Nala Depot, located in Sewa Nagar, near Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, as per an official statement.
Discussing the rollout of new buses, the Delhi Transport Minister mentioned that around 2,000 new buses, both 12 meters and 9 meters in length, will gradually augment the DTC fleet starting this month.
Buses will be phased out in batches each month. “Numerous new electric buses will be incorporated into the fleet as older buses are retired monthly,” he stated.
Confirming that women will continue to enjoy complimentary travel on public transport, Minister Singh promised to turn around the deficit-ridden Delhi Transport Corporation and ensure it returns to profitability.
Officials indicated that the initial batch of DEVI buses will operate from depots in Ghazipur, Nangloi, and East Vinod Nagar.
The buses will function as feeders for major DTC bus routes and Metro stations. Each bus is projected to cover a 12-kilometer route, with the capacity to house 100 such buses at each depot.
