Govt plans bus route overhaul, seeks staff input

Delhi Transport Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh has called for direct inputs from drivers, conductors, and depot managers to improve last-mile connectivity, as the Government pushes ahead with a major overhaul of bus routes and expansion of electric mobility.

The direction came during a review meeting of the Transport Department, where the minister stressed that ground-level feedback is essential for making the public transport system more efficient and accessible. “The route rationalisation exercise must reflect real conditions on the ground. Inputs from DTC staff will help improve connectivity and passenger experience,” Singh said.

The government is currently undertaking a comprehensive route rationalisation study for 9-metre DEVI electric buses.

The study is being carried out by the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi under an agreement with the Delhi Transport Infrastructure Development Corporation.

Officials said the study aims to redesign Delhi’s bus network using data-driven methods. It covers 121 routes in the East Zone, 181 in the West Zone, and 194 in the North Zone. Work for the South Zone is also in progress.

The minister said that incorporating practical insights from transport staff will ensure that routes are better aligned with commuter needs. He added that improving connectivity will encourage more people to use public transport, which will help reduce congestion and pollution.

Singh also reviewed the progress of interstate electric bus services operated by the Delhi Transport Corporation. These services have received a positive response from passengers, according to officials.

At present, electric buses are running on routes connecting Delhi with Baraut and Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh, and Sonipat, Dharuhera, and Panipat in Haryana. The government now plans to expand services to additional routes.

Proposed new routes include Delhi to Rewari, Karnal, Alwar, and Jewar. Officials said the expansion is part of a broader plan to promote clean mobility beyond the capital.

The minister said the response to electric buses shows growing acceptance of eco-friendly transport options. He added that the government remains committed to strengthening sustainable transport systems.

In another initiative, the Transport Department is exploring the introduction of bus services to major religious destinations.