While tabling 2018-19 Budget in the Delhi Assembly on Thursday, Finance Minister Manish Sisodia has announced the procurement of 1000 fully electric buses, among others for transport sector.
While the Delhi’ites hailed the declarations made for the transport division, the unions associated with the sector seemed to be unhappy.
Praising the rollout of 1000 fully electric buses, Gautam Sharma, a resident of Karol Bagh, said that the step would be a great benefit for Delhi’s people.
“The day, when Delhi Metro hiked its fare, most of the passengers have been trying to find an alternative to it. And this step would surely be a good option,” Sharma said.
Presently, the buses in Delhi are overcrowded. The procurement process will not only enhance the bus fleet, but it will also help crowd management, he added.
In the Budget, the government has also announced the induction of 905 electric feeder vehicles to boost the last mile connectivity, expansion of eligibility criteria for e-rickshaw subsidy and comprehensive electric vehicle policy with focus on two-wheelers.
“I have to travel around 2 km daily to reach the nearest bus stop or Delhi metro station from my home. I am hoping that the feeder vehicles may improve the last mile connectivity to my home,” said Akanksha Kumar, an employee with the private legal firm.
However, some of the transport unions including Delhi Goods Transport Organisation (DGTO) were disappointed with the Budget.
Rajendra Kapoor, president of DGTO said, “While the government has announced that it will procure 1000 new buses, it did not mention anywhere how the city government will arrange money for buying them.”
Meanwhile, DTC Aam Karamchari Union thanked Delhi government as it has passed an additional budget of Rs 465 crore to clear arrears of 7th pay commission.
Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot broke the news to micro-blogging site Twitter. “Congratulations to all DTC Employees and Pensioners.
The additional budget of 465 crore proposed to clear arrears of 7th pay commission and arrears on account of de-freezing of DA. My deep gratitude to @ArvindKejriwal,” he tweeted.