Will U-Special buses with AC and music system be revived for college students?
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Synopsis
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta has unveiled plans to revive the U-Special bus service, once a vital transport option for college students. With modern upgrades, including air-conditioning and music systems, the service promises to improve student commutes significantly. This initiative reflects the government's commitment to enhancing education accessibility and support for students across Delhi.
Key Takeaways
- The U-Special bus service is being revived to assist college students.
- Modern amenities will enhance the commuting experience.
- The initiative reflects a commitment to improving transportation for students.
- Government schools are undergoing transformations to improve quality.
- University students are encouraged to mentor schoolchildren.
New Delhi, Aug 5 (NationPress) Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced on Tuesday the reintroduction of the long-abandoned 'U-Special' bus service, which previously functioned as a crucial transport system for college students in the North and South Campuses of Delhi University.
While inaugurating the newly-built academic block of the Social Centre School, affiliated with Delhi University, CM Gupta mentioned that the bus service, which had been inactive for nearly two decades due to a lack of buses, will be relaunched with modern enhancements.
The new U-Special buses will feature amenities such as air-conditioning, LED lighting, and music systems, ensuring a more comfortable, accessible, and dignified journey for students.
CM Gupta recognized the issues students face while commuting to colleges and reaffirmed her government’s dedication to providing safe, reliable, and student-friendly transportation.
Initiated in 1971, the 'U-Special' buses were a dedicated transport service for college students, connecting major college campuses across the city, including the North and South Campuses of Delhi University.
These buses were exclusively for students, known for their convenience and affordability. They offered return trips post-noon, serving as a reliable transport solution for thousands of learners.
However, the rise of private Red Line and later Blue Line buses in the 1990s led to a decline in the DTC’s fleet, resulting in the eventual discontinuation of the U-Special service.
Earlier, the Chief Minister commended the transformation of the Social Centre School, established in 1947 with a mission of social service.
Today, it operates as a modern, four-storey institution featuring 21 state-of-the-art classrooms.
The Chief Minister also declared that the school will receive official recognition to offer education up to Class 12.
In a noteworthy proposal, CM Gupta urged Delhi University to adopt government schools requiring support, allowing university professors and students to regularly visit and mentor schoolchildren.
She encouraged university students to act as elder siblings to children from disadvantaged backgrounds, providing them with guidance, support, and educational assistance to help integrate them into mainstream society.
The Chief Minister highlighted a social paradox in the education system, noting that while parents are eager to send their children to government-run colleges and universities, they often hesitate to choose government schools.
"This hesitation arises from misconceptions regarding the quality and reputation of government schools," she stated.
"Our government is committed to altering that perception. We are enhancing government schools in Delhi to surpass private institutions' standards, so much so that parents will proudly choose to enroll their children in them," she added.
The event was attended by Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood, Delhi University Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh, Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh, local MLAs, senior officials from the university and the Education Department, along with numerous students.
Point of View
The initiative aims to provide a more dignified commuting experience. It is essential for the government to continue investing in student-friendly services to foster a supportive educational environment.
NationPress
31/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the features of the new U-Special buses?
The new U-Special buses will include air-conditioning, LED lighting, and music systems to ensure a comfortable commuting experience for students.
Why was the U-Special bus service discontinued?
The service was discontinued nearly two decades ago due to a shortage of buses and the emergence of private transportation options.
When was the U-Special service originally started?
The U-Special service was originally started in 1971 as a dedicated transport service for college students.
What is the government's approach to improving education in government schools?
The government aims to change perceptions about government schools by enhancing their quality and infrastructure to exceed the standards of private institutions.
What is the significance of the Social Centre School's transformation?
The transformation of the Social Centre School highlights the government's commitment to modernizing educational institutions and expanding access to quality education.
