Delhi govt mulls smart cabs as cheaper alternative to autos

Delhi government is mulling introducing ‘smart comfort taxis’ in the national capital which will not only be eco-friendly but also a cheaper alternative to auto rickshaws. “We are working on providing an alternative to auto rickshaws which <g data-gr-id="39">is</g> not only eco-friendly but also likely to be cheaper to avoid burning a hole in people’s pockets. The idea is being considered to address the problem of last mile connectivity in Delhi,” Delhi Tourism Minister Gopal Rai said on Saturday.

Rai was addressing the gathering at the “Smart Transportation Infra Summit 2015” organised by the <g data-gr-id="20">PHD</g> Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI).

Participating in a seminar on “Smart mobility in Delhi and Technology Convergence in Smart Transportation”, Rai said, “Despite metro being a saviour and efforts being made to make public bus transport system smooth, the major hurdle is the lack of last mile connectivity which forces Delhi residents to ply their private vehicles on road.” 

The minister said that a proposal of introducing ‘common mobility card’ which will work in all modes of public transport is also being actively considered. “DTC is in <g data-gr-id="23">process</g> of introducing 2,000 buses including 1,380 low far buses, 500 midi buses and 300 luxury buses which will be dedicated for travel between Delhi and NCR,” he said.

“10,000 buses will be introduced in the Public Private Partnership mode and will have all kinds of categories including standard general buses, middle fare and high fare buses,” he added.