DTC to launch AC mini buses soon

To make travel for comfortable for Delhi's commuters, Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) has announced that it will soon launch app-based air-conditioned mini buses in the city from September.

Nearly 20-25 buses have been planned to be launched in the first phase, with the number increasing if the experiment proves successful.

The Corporation has planned to run these buses within Delhi-NCR. According to DTC officials, the buses will be non-stop so as to reduce commute time. The Corporation's target is to provide hassle-free experience to commuters.

A source in the Corporation said that there are various complaints from commuters who travel with Delhi-NCR regarding infrequent availability of buses, which makes the buses more crowded.

The current fleet of buses are not non-stop, and stop at most bus stands in their route.

Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot is likely to review the plan soon and present it in front of the Cabinet. The Transport department may also include major IT companies to design the mobile application for this service.

According to officials, separate companies will maintain the app so that proper review of the app can take place. The buses would also have Wi-Fi and GPS system installed, along with CCTV cameras.

According to officials, the Delhi Government is trying to make the DTC more modern. Earlier, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had said that the government will make "DTC world class". The mini AC bus initiative is a part of this vision.

Meanwhile, DTC has also started a thorough restructuring of bus depots. The condition of most bus depots in the city is deplorable.

The Transport Minister has directed officials to repair and beautify all the existing bus depots. According to reports, the work has already started and within few months commuters in Delhi will get modern and sophisticated bus depots.