In a bid to offer relief from high fare auto-rickshaws, OLA, and UBER services and enhance last-mile connectivity, the Delhi government’s ambitious “Mohalla Bus Yojana” (Neighborhood Bus Scheme) is on the verge of becoming a reality. The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) is on the brink of sealing contracts for electric buses, marking a significant step towards improving public transportation in the city. This initiative, outlined in the 2023-24 Delhi Budget, focuses on deploying small, easily maneuverable 9-meter electric buses to navigate congested or narrow lanes.
Procurement of Electric Buses
Reliable sources indicate that contracts with electric bus manufacturers are likely to be finalized within this week or the following. These electric buses are expected to be delivered within a time frame of three to five months.
A Focus on Last-Mile Connectivity
Kailash Gahlot, Delhi’s Transport Minister, underscores the government’s dedication to enhancing last-mile connectivity. He stated, “We have held several consultations and even formed a committee. I will personally hold meetings with legislators and councillors to gain firsthand experience. We are also planning to organize public consultations in various areas. Following these consultations, we will finalize the service routes.” The “Mohalla Buses” will navigate neighborhoods at a moderate pace, making it easier for residents to reach nearby metro stations, markets, hospitals, and other essential destinations.
Expanding Feeder Bus Services
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the Delhi government is set to acquire more than 2,000 feeder buses designed to operate on routes inaccessible to 12-meter buses. In May, the Transport Minister established a technical committee responsible for deciding the routes and operational specifics of this new bus scheme.
Route Survey and Feedback
The committee has diligently conducted route surveys based on valuable public feedback. An official stated, “Now, the survey data is being correlated with population figures, the basic road infrastructure, and road widths in these areas.” The “Mohalla Buses” will be specially tailored for areas characterized by narrow roads or high congestion, where conventional 12-meter buses face operational challenges.
As Delhi takes this significant step toward enhancing its public transport system, residents can look forward to more accessible and convenient commuting options in the near future.
Important Information Table:
- Project Name: Mohalla Bus Yojana (Neighborhood Bus Scheme)
- Initiative Goal: Improve last-mile connectivity in congested or narrow lanes with small, easily maneuverable 9-meter electric buses
- Bus Procurement: Contracts for electric buses to be signed within this week
- Delivery Timeline: Expected delivery of buses in three to five months
- Government Focus: Strengthening last-mile connectivity is a top priority
- Feeder Bus Expansion: Over 2,000 feeder buses to be purchased to reach areas inaccessible to 12-meter buses
- Route Survey: Completed based on public feedback; Data correlated with population figures and road infrastructure
With these initiatives, Delhi aims to provide more efficient and convenient public transportation options to its residents, particularly in areas where traditional buses face operational challenges.
