In a move to combat the scorching heat and enhance commuter comfort, New Delhi is initiating an innovative project that will see volunteers, known as ‘Jal Doots’, stationed at bus queue shelters to provide clean drinking water to those waiting for public transport. This initiative is part of the broader ‘Delhi Heat Action Plan 2025,’ recently reviewed by Delhi Health and Transport Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh. According to Singh, the Jal Doots will receive training to efficiently distribute water, alleviating the effects of extreme temperatures on passengers.
Additionally, the Delhi government is repurposing defunct Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses, converting them into functional food kiosks at key transport terminals. These kiosks, which will offer basic amenities such as clean drinking water and adhere to hygiene standards, are set to debut at Anand Vihar ISBT, Sarai Kale Khan ISBT, and Kashmere Gate ISBT. This initiative aims to enhance the commuter experience further while giving new life to out-of-service buses.
In efforts to address the increasing challenges posed by extreme weather, the DTC plans to implement technological upgrades, including the installation of RO Digital Water Coolers at main depots and terminals. In the first phase, ten key depots have been earmarked for these installations. Minister Singh emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Ensuring access to clean drinking water is a fundamental necessity, especially during peak summer months. By installing RO systems at our depots, we are taking a concrete step to prioritize the well-being of our hardworking staff and daily commuters. This initiative underscores our commitment to building a humane and responsive public transport system.”
As part of the comprehensive heat action plan, the DTC will distribute informative materials at bus stands to educate passengers on preventing heat-related illnesses. Additionally, bus stands will be equipped with shaded areas and water facilities. Minister Singh also mentioned that dedicated health teams would be on standby at all Delhi Government Hospitals and Health Centres to offer assistance to those suffering from heat-induced ailments.
During a recent meeting attended by senior officials from the Transport Department, the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC), and the Delhi Integrated Multi-Modal Transit System Ltd (DIMTS), plans were also discussed for revamping Delhi’s Inter-State Bus Terminals (ISBTs). The Anand Vihar and Sarai Kale Khan terminals will be transformed into state-of-the-art multimodal transport hubs, ensuring seamless connectivity across various modes of transport, including buses, Metro lines, Railways, and electric vehicles. The Kashmere Gate ISBT, one of the city’s most vital transport nodes, is set for a comprehensive redevelopment aimed at boosting passenger capacity, streamlining movement, and enhancing visual aesthetics.
These strategic initiatives by the Delhi government underscore a focused approach toward improving public transport facilities and ensuring the safety and comfort of the commuting public amidst rising temperatures. As these plans unfold, New Delhi residents can look forward to better-equipped transit environments, making daily commutes more comfortable and safer during extreme weather conditions.
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2025/04/25/summer-plan-jal-doots-to-provide-drinking-water-to-commuters-at-delhi-bus-stops/
Category : NATIONAL,News Alert
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-04-25 21:27:00
