In a significant move aimed at overhauling the capital's public transportation network, the Delhi government has announced a massive 60 per cent increase in the budget allocation for its transport department for the upcoming financial year. The financial outlay has been raised to a substantial ₹7,904 crore for the fiscal year 2025-26, up from the revised estimate of ₹4,937 crore for the current year (2024-25). This decision was approved by the Delhi Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, signaling a strong push towards sustainable and accessible urban mobility.
Focus on Electric Mobility and Fleet Modernization
The enhanced budget is strategically directed towards accelerating the transition to green energy in public transport. A major chunk of the funds will be dedicated to the procurement of new electric buses. The government plans to significantly expand its fleet of electric buses, which are seen as crucial for reducing air pollution and cutting down carbon emissions in the city. This initiative aligns with Delhi's broader environmental goals and its commitment to combating the severe air quality issues that plague the national capital region, especially during the winter months.
Beyond just adding new buses, the budget also encompasses comprehensive plans for the maintenance, operation, and development of necessary infrastructure for this growing electric fleet. This includes setting up charging stations across the city to ensure seamless operations. The move is expected to not only improve the quality of public transport but also create a more robust and future-ready transportation ecosystem that can serve Delhi's burgeoning population efficiently.
Enhancing Last-Mile Connectivity and Metro Integration
Recognizing that a world-class metro system needs equally efficient last-mile solutions, the Delhi government has earmarked funds specifically to improve connectivity from metro stations to residential and commercial areas. The budget will support schemes and services designed to bridge this critical gap. This could involve augmenting feeder bus services, promoting electric auto-rickshaws, and integrating various modes of transport through unified digital platforms.
The emphasis on last-mile connectivity is a direct response to commuter feedback and studies highlighting it as a major pain point. By making it easier for people to reach their final destination from metro stations or bus stops, the government aims to increase the overall ridership of public transport, thereby reducing reliance on private vehicles. This integrated approach is vital for decongesting Delhi's notoriously busy roads and making daily commutes less stressful for millions of residents.
A Holistic Push for Sustainable Urban Transport
The substantial budget hike reflects the Delhi government's prioritization of public transportation as a key pillar of urban development and environmental policy. The approval by the Cabinet, chaired by CM Arvind Kejriwal, underscores the political will behind this transformative agenda. The comprehensive plan addresses multiple facets of the transport sector simultaneously: fleet modernization, environmental sustainability, passenger convenience, and systemic integration.
This financial commitment is poised to have far-reaching consequences. It is expected to accelerate Delhi's journey towards becoming a city with a cleaner, greener, and more reliable public transport system. The success of these initiatives will be closely watched, as they could serve as a model for other Indian metropolitan areas grappling with similar challenges of pollution, congestion, and the need for sustainable urban mobility solutions. The increased outlay represents a decisive investment in the city's infrastructure and the quality of life of its citizens.
