Delhi govt to launch mohalla bus scheme soon

The Delhi government’s ‘mohalla’ bus initiative is set to launch in the coming months as the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) is on track to finalise a contract for the acquisition of electric buses this week, officials said.

This new bus service, unveiled as part of the 2023-24 Delhi budget, is designed to enhance last-mile connectivity in areas characterized by narrow or congested roads.

“We anticipate signing a contract with electric bus manufacturers either this week or early next week for the procurement of these buses. The delivery of the buses is estimated to take between three to five months,” official said.

Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot recently emphasised the government’s commitment to improving last-mile connectivity, mentioning ongoing consultations, committee formations, and forthcoming meetings with MLAs and councillors to gather firsthand insights.

He also highlighted plans for public meetings in various areas to help finalize the service routes. Gahlot explained that these buses would operate in circular patterns within neighborhoods, enabling people to reach nearby metro stations, markets, or hospitals.

The Arvind Kejriwal government has a comprehensive plan to acquire more than 2,000 feeder buses specifically designed for routes unsuitable for 12-meter buses.

A technical committee, established by the transport minister in May, has already conducted a route survey based on public feedback.

An official added, “Currently, the survey data is being cross-referenced with population data, road infrastructure, and road width information. The ‘mohalla’ buses will be custom-designed for areas with narrower roads or high congestion, where regular 12-meter buses are impractical.” (With inputs from PTI)