Delhi Launches 350 Electric Buses to Combat Pollution

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On Wednesday, Delhi witnessed a significant milestone in its efforts to combat air pollution as Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal flagged off 350 electric buses, boosting the total count to 1,650 electric buses in the national capital. This move underscores Delhi’s commitment to transitioning towards sustainable transport solutions and reducing vehicular emissions.

Electric Bus Inauguration

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal proudly announced that Delhi now leads the nation with the highest number of electric buses, with the current fleet standing at 1,650. He emphasized the critical role these buses will play in curbing pollution levels in the city. The inauguration of 350 new electric buses marks a significant step forward in the city’s efforts to promote clean and green transportation.

Government’s Commitment to Sustainability

The Delhi government’s decision to exclusively procure electric buses since 2021 demonstrates its strong commitment to sustainability. With plans to expand the fleet to 11,000 electric buses and ensure that 80% of all public buses are electric by 2025-26, the government aims to substantially reduce pollution levels and improve air quality in the national capital.

Impact of Vehicular Emissions

According to a 2016 study by the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, vehicular emissions are a major contributor to Delhi’s air pollution crisis. Approximately 9% of the PM10 load and around 20% of the PM2.5 load in the city are attributed to vehicular emissions, posing serious health risks to residents. Electric buses offer a cleaner and more environmentally friendly alternative, helping to mitigate the adverse effects of air pollution on public health.

Phasing Out CNG Buses: In addition to expanding the electric bus fleet, the Delhi government also aims to phase out CNG buses. The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) transitioned to CNG-run buses from diesel vehicles in April 2002 following a Supreme Court order issued in 1998. Furthermore, vehicles over 15 years old are prohibited from operating in the national capital, contributing to efforts to reduce vehicular emissions and improve air quality.

Conclusion

The inauguration of 350 electric buses in Delhi marks a significant milestone in the city’s journey towards sustainable transport and cleaner air. With ambitious plans to further expand the electric bus fleet and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, Delhi sets an example for other cities to follow in combating air pollution and promoting environmental sustainability through innovative transport solutions.