Delhi Chief Minister Launches 500 Electric Buses on BJP's First Anniversary in Power
As the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government celebrated its first anniversary after returning to power in Delhi following a 27-year gap, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta marked the occasion by flagging off 500 new electric buses at Ramlila Maidan in New Delhi. The event, attended by BJP National President Nitin Nabin, highlighted the administration's push towards sustainable urban mobility and improved public transport infrastructure.
Expanding Electric Bus Fleet and Metro Network
During the ceremony, Chief Minister Gupta announced that Delhi now operates a total of 4,000 electric buses across city routes, with ambitious plans to increase this number to approximately 14,000 by the end of 2028. She emphasized that these air-conditioned buses are equipped with advanced safety features, including CCTV cameras and panic buttons, which are expected to enhance passenger security while contributing to better air quality in the capital.
In addition to the intra-city buses, three electric buses designated for interstate travel from Delhi to Panipat were also inaugurated, expanding connectivity options for commuters. Gupta further detailed progress on the Delhi Metro, noting that the current network spans 400 kilometers across the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) and is set to expand to 500 kilometers upon completion of Phase V, aiming to reduce traffic congestion and promote eco-friendly transit.
Upcoming Policy for Electric Vehicles and E-Rickshaws
Highlighting the government's commitment to electric vehicles, Gupta revealed that a new policy is in the works to regularise e-rickshaws in Delhi. This initiative is part of broader efforts to integrate smaller electric vehicles into the city's transport ecosystem, supporting environmental goals and providing regulated options for last-mile connectivity.
Political Remarks and Criticism of Previous Government
Taking a political stance, Chief Minister Gupta contrasted the BJP's tenure with the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government. She recalled the historic election results from last year, where the BJP secured 48 out of 70 seats, and criticized the AAP administration for alleged failures in providing basic necessities such as clean water, proper sewer systems, and healthcare. Gupta specifically targeted former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, implying that his arrogance during his term was met with a decisive response from Delhi's voters, who "showed him from this very ground of Ramlila Maidan" and transformed the city's political atmosphere.
BJP Leadership Applauds Government Achievements
BJP National President Nitin Nabin, present at the event, commended the Delhi government for achieving the highest number of electric buses among any Indian city. He praised the administration's dedication to principles like zero tolerance for corruption, accountability, and digital transparency. Nabin also highlighted the new bus fleet's potential to alleviate traffic congestion and curb pollution, reinforcing the government's focus on sustainable development and public welfare.
This milestone event underscores the BJP-led government's ongoing initiatives to modernize Delhi's transport infrastructure while addressing environmental concerns, setting a precedent for urban mobility reforms in India.
