In a bold move to combat Delhi’s notorious air pollution crisis, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has announced a massive ‘Maha Sankalp’ initiative. The government plans to roll out 3,330 brand-new electric buses across the national capital, marking one of the largest fleet expansions in India’s urban transport history.
This ambitious project comes at a time when Delhi’s air quality index frequently dips into the ‘severe’ category during winter months, choking residents with hazardous smog. The electric buses aim to replace aging, diesel-guzzling vehicles that contribute significantly to the city’s toxic emissions. Officials estimate this shift could slash particulate matter levels by up to 20% in high-traffic zones.
The announcement was made during a high-profile event at the Delhi Secretariat, where Gupta emphasized the government’s commitment to sustainable mobility. ‘Delhi cannot breathe, and neither can its people. These electric buses are our promise of cleaner air for every citizen,’ she declared to thunderous applause.
Implementation will occur in phases, starting with 1,000 buses by mid-2025, followed by the remaining fleet over the next two years. The project, funded through a mix of state budgets, central grants, and green bonds, partners with leading EV manufacturers. Charging infrastructure will expand with 500 new stations at key depots and terminals.
Environmental experts hail the plan as a game-changer, but warn of challenges like grid capacity and last-mile connectivity. Commuters, weary of overcrowded public transport, express cautious optimism. As Delhi stares down another polluted winter, this electric armada could redefine the city’s fight against its invisible enemy.
