Delhi Transport Minister Dr Pankaj Kumar Singh on Monday ordered an immediate safety overhaul of the entire Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) fleet after three recent fire incidents involving one CNG bus and two electric buses. The Minister directed the Transport Department and DTC to adopt a zero-tolerance approach to safety lapses and implement fresh protocols covering maintenance, wiring, charging systems, battery monitoring and depot-level preparedness.
Speaking after a review meeting with officials and bus manufacturers, Dr Singh said the incidents were a “serious concern” and demanded urgent corrective action. “We must ensure that every bus operating in Delhi meets the highest safety standards. I have directed officials to adopt a zero-tolerance approach toward any lapse in safety and maintenance,” he said.
The meeting focused on preliminary findings from the three incidents and identified key vulnerabilities in both CNG and electric buses. Officials said the new measures will apply across the fleet, with special attention to buses linked to recent fires. The minister directed that these buses undergo a full safety protocol audit, including electrical systems, battery health parametres, engine area integrity and low-voltage wiring.
One of the strongest directions issued was a mandate for deeper technical audits for both fuel types. Officials said checks will now include real-time monitoring of battery temperature, inverter load, ripple current and charger performance. The minister also ordered the improvement of fire suppression systems in engine and battery compartments and the strengthening of isolation distances used during electric bus charging.
The Transport Department has also been told to implement the detailed recommendations of the IIT Delhi expert committee. The report calls for improving low-voltage wiring robustness, increasing insulation, upgrading fire sensors, strengthening battery management systems and ensuring reliable data monitoring for early warning signs. Dr Singh said all of these recommendations will be integrated into the new action plan.
A key change involves electric buses that have crossed 200 charging cycles. These buses will now be sent for complete technical checks focused on overcharging, overheating and compact area inspection. Officers said this requirement aims to reduce thermal risks and extend battery health. Buses reporting battery heating issues must shift to reduced voltage charging until cleared by technical teams.
The minister also directed DTC to improve telematics-based diagnostics. This includes automated alerts for abnormalities, predictive failure analysis and dashboard monitoring at depots.
Depot technicians will undergo upskilling to handle the advanced systems used in electric buses. The Transport Department said better training will ensure that early warning signs are not missed.
The meeting also flagged ageing components. The minister said all parts that show signs of deterioration must be replaced on time and documented. He directed officials to maintain routine documentation of every maintenance cycle and ensure traceability for internal audits.