The Hindu : New Delhi News : ‘Buses run by corporate houses needed’

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Tuesday, Jul 24, 2007
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New Delhi

New Delhi

‘Buses run by corporate houses needed’

Gaurav Vivek Bhatnagar

“Government looking forward to introducing a variety of buses catering to various paying capacities ”

NEW DELHI: A long-term permanent solution to the bus problem in the Capital lies in operations by large cooperatives and corporate houses and the present checking of vehicles is only a temporary solution till such time, according to Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit.

The Chief Minister said on Monday that the Government was looking forward to introducing a variety of buses catering to various paying capacities over the next five to six months. “The Expression of Interest invited by the Transport Department from large players eager to run over 100 buses each has been evoking great interest among cooperatives and corporates alike.”

Ms. Dikshit said there had been enquiries from big groups like the Tatas and IL&FS on the scheme: “We are prepared to discuss the issue at length with such big groups as their coming in would facilitate operation of buses in a very professional manner.”

The Delhi Government is now eager to phase out the 3,900-odd Blueline buses operating on the city routes. It has now realised that no matter whether it installs speed governors on these buses or whether they all make themselves “fit” by undergoing necessary repairs, the attitude of the drivers and the owners would never make them safe for the roads.

So, according to the plan of action drawn up by it, the process of phasing out the Blueline buses would coincide with the introduction of newer buses so that the strength of the fleet on the roads is not depleted.

“We are of the firm view now that a lasting and most appropriate solution to the city’s transport problem lies in introducing low-floor buses operated by cooperatives and corporates,” said Ms. Dikshit, adding, “As they would be allotted separate routes, the competition would be curbed and the plying of vehicles would become regulated.”

Since that would take some time, Ms. Dikshit said the Government wanted to carry on with its drive to discipline the Blueline buses. She said all the buses that pass the fitness test would be allowed to return to the roads immediately: “we are trying to minimise the inconvenience to the people.”

Meanwhile, the Delhi Cabinet on Monday also reviewed the issue involving checking of Blueline buses at various DTC bus depots. Ms. Dikshit expressed confidence that with fitness certificate being granted to more buses the situation would improve and hoped that the checking would be completed within the next few days.

The Chief Minister said the neighbouring States had been asked to ply more buses to Delhi. Non-availability of CNG buses with them had proved to be a major impediment in this plan.

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