Chief Minister Rekha Gupta launched 50 new e-buses in Delhi on Friday as part of the government’s initiative to combat air pollution in the capital. The unveiling took place at the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) Tehkhand depot, where Gupta also laid the foundation stone for an automated testing station (ATS). This station aims to modernize vehicle inspections and support the city’s shift towards electric mobility.
The Chief Minister emphasized the urgency of transitioning public transport to electric alternatives, highlighting that in just eight months, the BJP government has delivered 1,350 electric buses. In a pointed critique of the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) administration, which added 2,000 buses during its tenure, Gupta stated, “We are making rapid strides in enhancing our public transport infrastructure.”
In a post on X, Gupta detailed the comprehensive efforts of her administration to improve air quality in Delhi. “We are aggressively tackling pollution through a multi-faceted approach, which includes removing garbage mountains, intensifying cleanliness campaigns, and implementing dust control measures,” she noted. The current strategies include mechanical sweeping and water sprinkling to maintain a cleaner environment.
The new ATS, designed to be Delhi’s second major automated facility, is expected to streamline the vehicle fitness process, ensuring it is secure and technology-driven. Once completed, anticipated by March, the station will manage annual testing for approximately 72,000 vehicles. The facility, built at a cost of ₹8 crore, will feature four lanes-two for heavy motor vehicles, one for light motor vehicles, and one dedicated to two-wheelers. The revenue generated is projected to be around ₹3 crore annually for the DTC.
Earlier in July, Gupta initiated the construction of the capital’s first ATS at the Nand Nagri depot, underscoring her government’s commitment to enhancing transportation infrastructure.
In a related development, Delhi’s air quality recorded a slight improvement, moving to the ‘very poor’ category on Friday after three days in the ‘severe’ range. The Central Pollution Control Board noted that the city’s 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) was 387 at 4:30 p.m., a drop from 404 the previous day. However, forecasts indicate that air quality may fluctuate between ‘very poor’ and ‘severe’ categories for the next six days.
As the government continues to implement measures to mitigate pollution and modernize public transport, the focus remains on creating a healthier environment for Delhi’s residents. Gupta’s administration is positioned to tackle Delhi’s significant air quality challenges head-on, aiming for long-term sustainable improvements.
This push toward electric buses and enhanced vehicle testing facilities marks a critical step in Delhi’s fight against air pollution, illustrating a proactive response to one of the city’s most pressing issues.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/cm-flags-off-50-e-buses-as-part-of-govts-efforts-to-fight-air-pollution/article70281621.ece
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Publish Date: 2025-11-15 01:37:00
