Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday (28 September) flagged off 300 new electric buses for the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC), marking a major step toward strengthening sustainable public transport in the capital.
Speaking at the launch, Gupta said the new induction was not just about increasing the fleet size but about improving accessibility for commuters. “These 300 buses are more than numbers they have been deployed on carefully planned routes to ensure better reach, especially across Yamuna Par. This marks the beginning of a new chapter in Delhi’s public transport system,” she noted. The initiative has been developed with technical expertise from IIT Delhi.
With the new addition, DTC’s fleet of electric buses has risen to 974 DEVi vehicles. The fresh services will primarily benefit the Yamunapar region, covering 21 new routes and nearly 625 bus stops.
Transport Minister Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh emphasised that this marks Delhi’s first route rationalisation exercise. “A detailed study is already in progress to extend rationalisation citywide, so that every neighbourhood enjoys reliable and seamless last-mile connectivity,” he said.
Union Minister of State Harsh Malhotra, who also attended the event, added that under the “double-engine government” approach, infrastructure growth is now reaching every constituency and ward in the city.
Gupta linked the rollout to the larger Green Delhi – Clean Delhi campaign, assuring citizens of affordable, eco-friendly, and accessible mobility. She further announced an ambitious target: “Within the next 12 to 18 months, Delhi’s entire fleet of public buses will be fully electric.”
She also criticised the previous government, pointing to “over a decade of mismanagement,” and pledged that her administration would focus on building a modern and developed Delhi.
Officials said the rationalisation plan would help reduce operational losses for DTC while also offering smoother, more direct travel options for residents of both border areas and inner localities.
