For the first time in over twenty years, the Delhi government is bringing back inter-state bus services, but this time with a fresh, eco-friendly approach. The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) is set to launch a fleet of 100 electric buses that will connect the capital to 17 cities across six states. This move is a big step towards greener, cleaner, and more comfortable travel for everyone.
Why Is This Service Special?
- Eco-Friendly Travel: All buses will be fully electric, supporting Delhi’s push for green mobility and helping to reduce pollution.
- Premium Comfort: The new buses are designed for long-distance trips—12 metres long, fully air-conditioned, and fitted with extra-comfortable seats.
- Modern Features: Each bus will have CCTV cameras, GPS tracking, and panic buttons for passenger safety.
- Easy Booking: Passengers can book tickets using a simple app, making travel planning smooth and hassle-free.
- Affordable Prices: While final fares are still being decided, DTC buses are usually cheaper than private operators, even with these upgrades.
Where Will the Buses Go?
The electric buses will link Delhi to important cities across six states. Here’s a quick look at the main destinations:
- Uttarakhand: Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun, and two more cities.
- Uttar Pradesh: Ayodhya, Lucknow, Moradabad, and two more.
- Rajasthan: Jaipur, Alwar, Bikaner.
- Punjab: Amritsar, Patiala, Chandigarh.
- Haryana: Panipat.
- Jammu & Kashmir: Jammu.
This network covers major pilgrimage sites, tourist destinations, and busy business hubs, making travel easier for a wide range of people.
Why Was the Service Stopped Before?
DTC once ran popular inter-state services to places like Jaipur, Chandigarh, Udaipur, Shimla, and Haridwar. However, in the early 2000s, Delhi started switching its buses from diesel to CNG for cleaner air. While this was good for the city, other states did not have enough CNG stations, so the interstate service slowly faded and was completely stopped by 2010.
Now, with electric buses, there’s no need to worry about fuel availability in other states, making it possible to bring back these important routes.
Who Will Benefit from the New Service?
The new electric bus service is designed for:
- Commuters: People who travel regularly between Delhi and nearby cities for work, study, or family visits.
- Pilgrims and Tourists: Those heading to popular religious or tourist spots like Ayodhya, Haridwar, and Amritsar.
- Private Vehicle Users: The government hopes that comfortable, safe, and affordable buses will encourage more people to leave their cars at home and use public transport instead.
What Happens Next?
- Bus Procurement: The DTC is in the process of buying the new electric buses.
- Coordination with States: Officials are working with other state governments to ensure smooth operations.
- Service Launch: Once the buses arrive and all arrangements are in place, the service will be officially launched.
Delhi’s new electric inter-state bus service is a major upgrade for public transport. It brings back long-distance travel options after a long gap, with a focus on comfort, safety, and protecting the environment.
Whether you’re a regular commuter, a pilgrim, or a tourist, these buses are set to make your journey smoother, greener, and more enjoyable. Keep an eye out for the official launch—your next interstate trip could be just a ticket booking away!
