DTC runs destination buses, despite loss: NGT to Delhi govt

The National Green Tribunal on Friday took strong exception to the Delhi government's submission that the destination buses run by the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) were carrying "much less" passengers than their capacity, causing loss to the state transporter.

A bench headed by NGT Chaiperson Justice Swatanter Kumar slammed the AAP government for not "effectively" advertising about these point-to-point buses and

asked it to use mass media like radio and newspapers to inform the public about the services.

"Why haven't you advertised about the destination buses? That your buses are not getting sufficient passengers gets published in the newspapers, but your advertisements are not visible.

"We are not going to stop this service. We will put this order down your throat. This service will not stop even if it is running at loss and you are not getting enough travellers."

This order is to minimise the traffic of cars and lessen the congestion on roads and decrease pollution," the bench said.

The observation came after the counsel for the Delhi government told the tribunal that the occupancy rate of these buses was low.

However, the bench said "first show us what advertisements have you done in different areas to promote this service."

The DTC started running 20 point-to-point buses on as many routes starting from residential localities in the suburbs to office areas in central, south and northwest Delhi from May 1 after the NGT's direction.

Later, 20 more routes and buses were added to the list.

In the two-month period, the operation has proved non-beneficial as the buses are running empty and passengers have demanded more stops for them, a senior DTC officer had said.

It had also sought a detailed status report with regard to the impact of these buses on reduction in pollution in the city and directed the authorities not to stop this service unless directed by the tribunal.

It had directed the Delhi Transport Corporation to depute special officers from their circle who would be responsible for cleaning and maintaining these vehicles and ensure that the staff treats the passengers with respect.