Delhi's Bus Fleet Gets 2,800 Electric Boost

The Delhi Cabinet has greenlit the induction of 2,800 air-conditioned, low-floor electric buses as part of the Centre's PM E-DRIVE scheme. The first buses are anticipated to commence operations in April 2027, with the full integration into the city's public transport network scheduled for August 2028. This move supports the Delhi government's objective to increase the capital's bus fleet to approximately 14,000 by 2028-29. The approved fleet comprises 1,400 nine-metre buses suitable for narrower routes and 1,400 twelve-metre buses for high-demand corridors.

These electric buses will be equipped with modern features, including air-conditioning, CCTV cameras, panic buttons, and low-floor access for passenger safety. Route rationalization, in collaboration with IIT Delhi, is also planned to optimize deployment and reduce duplication. The buses will operate under a Gross Cost Contract model for 12 years, where private concessionaires will own and maintain the vehicles, with payment based on a per-kilometre rate. The Centre will provide financial assistance for each bus.

This expansion contributes to Delhi's existing substantial electric bus fleet, which already nears 4,800 vehicles. The government aims to phase out older CNG buses, transitioning towards an exclusively electric fleet. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta highlighted that the new buses will enhance public transport, offering cleaner and more convenient mobility, and improving last-mile connectivity. This initiative aligns with the Centre's energy-security strategy to reduce oil dependency.

Concurrent with fleet expansion, the DTC has introduced new routes, such as Route 753 Ext, to improve connectivity between Central and West Delhi. This experimental service is being monitored for potential permanent implementation. The Transport Minister indicated that decisions on permanent scheduling and frequency will follow evaluation.