Is Delhi's Transport Minister Ready to Transform Bus Stops into World-Class Facilities?

New Delhi, June 24 (NationPress) In an initiative to enhance the public transport system in the capital, Transport Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh unveiled plans on Tuesday to accelerate the upgrade of Delhi’s bus queue shelters (BQS) into contemporary, world-class amenities.

Following a presentation by the transport department, the Minister highlighted that innovative designs for these state-of-the-art BQS are being crafted after thorough research on existing models in the Delhi-NCR region, Bengaluru, Navi Mumbai, and global cities such as Singapore, London, and various locations in China.

He mentioned that the city is poised to see the establishment of some of the most modern and visually appealing bus stops.

These revamped shelters will not only enhance passenger convenience but will also prevent any obstructions for pedestrians on the footpaths. The forthcoming DTC shelters will feature LED lighting and digital display boards that will provide information on bus routes and numbers for easy access by commuters.

Singh indicated that to bolster Delhi’s public transport infrastructure, the Delhi Transport Infrastructure Development Corporation (DTIDC) has devised a strategy to replace outdated and damaged bus stops with advanced and modern BQS in both urban and rural sectors.

Officials informed the Minister that cost assessments and design analyses of BQS structures from both domestic and international cities are currently in progress.

The department has also suggested utilizing stainless steel for the construction of these new shelters.

The Transport Department reported that there are presently 4,627 designated BQS locations across Delhi, with 2,021 already operational. Plans are underway for the construction of 1,397 new BQS, while an additional 1,459 locations have been earmarked for future development, resulting in a total of over 2,800 new BQS to be introduced across Delhi in upcoming phases.

Singh stressed that the department is also diligently working on bus route optimization to ensure seamless connectivity and passenger convenience.

“The construction of the new BQS will be aligned with the revised route planning to maximize public benefit,” he stated.

Officials also conveyed to the Transport Minister that the design process for these world-class shelters is being conducted in collaboration with various stakeholders and departments.

The final design will be chosen through an open competition. Upon finalization, the project will move forward through a comprehensive process involving design approval, construction, operation, and maintenance.

Singh expressed that the government’s vision is to develop world-class BQS that can also generate revenue, transforming the Delhi Transport Department into a financially self-sustaining and surplus-generating entity.