Summer Initiative: 'Water Warriors' to Provide Drinking Water at Delhi Bus Stops
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Synopsis
Delhi introduces 'Water Warriors' to provide drinking water at bus stops. This initiative aims to combat the effects of extreme heat, ensuring commuters have access to clean water during summer months. Additionally, DTC plans to repurpose inactive buses into food kiosks and install RO water coolers at major depots.
Key Takeaways
- Volunteers will distribute drinking water at bus stops.
- Inactive DTC buses will become food kiosks.
- RO water coolers will be installed at major depots.
- Health teams will address heat-related issues at hospitals.
- ISBTs are set for modernization for better connectivity.
New Delhi, April 25 (NationPress) Volunteers known as ‘Water Warriors’ are set to begin distributing drinking water to individuals awaiting public transport buses at various stops, as confirmed by an official on Friday.
“Water Warriors, stationed at Bus Queue Shelters (BQS), will be trained personnel dedicated to supplying clean drinking water to passengers, thereby helping to mitigate the impacts of extreme heat,” stated Delhi Health and Transport Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh following a review of the ‘Delhi Heat Action Plan 2025’.
Additionally, inactive DTC buses will be transformed into food kiosks, initially launching at three major terminals—Anand Vihar ISBT, Sarai Kale Khan ISBT, and Kashmere Gate ISBT. Each kiosk will feature essential amenities such as drinking water, along with cleanliness and hygiene standards, he mentioned.
During the meeting, senior representatives from the Transport Department, Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC), and Delhi Integrated Multi-Modal Transit System Ltd (DIMTS) were in attendance.
Singh noted that in response to the challenges posed by severe weather, DTC will install RO Digital Water Coolers at DTC Depots and Terminals, with the first phase identifying 10 major depots for these installations.
“Facilitating access to clean drinking water is a vital necessity, particularly during the peak summer months. By installing RO systems at our depots, we are taking decisive action to prioritize the welfare of our diligent staff and daily commuters. This initiative highlights our dedication to developing a compassionate and responsive public transport system,” he remarked.
As part of the ‘Delhi Heat Action Plan 2025’, DTC will also showcase posters and distribute pamphlets on preventing heat-related ailments at bus stands.
The Minister emphasized ensuring the availability of shade/shelters and drinking water at bus stands, adding that dedicated health teams will be assigned to all Delhi Government Hospitals and Health Centres to assist individuals suffering from heat-related issues.
The meeting also addressed the renovation of Delhi’s Inter-State Bus Terminals (ISBTs). Both Anand Vihar and Sarai Kale Khan terminals are slated for upgrades into modern multimodal transport hubs, providing seamless connectivity among buses, Metro lines, Railways, and electric vehicles.
The Kashmere Gate ISBT, regarded as one of Delhi’s busiest transport hubs, is also set for extensive redevelopment aimed at enhancing passenger capacity, streamlining movement, and improving visual appeal, he concluded.
