Delhi Launches 100 New Devi Electric Buses to Boost Green Transit
Delhi has taken a bold leap in its public transport ambitions with the launch of 100 new Devi electric buses, each cloaked in an eye-catching saffron hue. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, who flagged off the fleet from the newly built Narela depot, called it a historic moment in the capital’s transition to eco-friendly, electric public transport.
However, the launch did not go unnoticed for reasons beyond transport. The switch from the standard green to saffron-coloured buses ignited political debate. Critics accused the government of politicising the move, alleging it could offend religious sentiments. “Stains of vomit, paan, and spit on saffron-coloured buses will hurt Hindu faith,” he said. In response, CM Gupta defended the colour choice, framing it as part of a vibrant palette for a diverse city. “Delhi is vibrant and colourful… this launch was timed with the Rath Yatra and is dedicated to Lord Jagannath,” she said.
The new nine-metre-long, low-floor Devi buses, each seating 23 and allowing space for 17 standing passengers, have been designed specifically for last-mile urban connectivity, especially in the narrow lanes of Delhi. Equipped with air conditioning, CCTV surveillance, panic buttons, and wheelchair accessibility, these buses represent Delhi’s vision for a safer and more inclusive transport future. CM Gupta highlighted that over 2,000 electric buses are currently operational across Delhi, and some of the newly launched ones will be driven by women, continuing the government’s push for gender inclusion in public services. “This is not just about buses. It’s about empowering women and transforming public mobility,” she said.
The Rs 2.63 crore Narela depot, completed in just 90 days, stands as a model of rapid infrastructure execution. Built on a 4,000 square metre site, the depot includes three dedicated bus bays, two modern sheds, EV charging stations, a passenger lounge, staff and commuter canteens, clean toilets, RO drinking water, and a medical room. In its operational phase, the depot will run 75 buses across nine key routes, improving accessibility in northwest Delhi. Routes will connect major nodes including Old Delhi Railway Station, Mori Gate, Delhi Secretariat, and Uttam Nagar, supporting better mobility for underserved areas.
Transport Minister Pankaj Singh praised the launch as a “milestone,” stating the move would ensure cleaner, safer, and more reliable public transport. “This depot represents a future where transport is not just faster, but fairer and cleaner for all citizens,” he added. Beyond infrastructure, CM Gupta took aim at previous administrations for undermining DTC. “Routes were slashed, costs went up, and thousands of employees were left jobless. Our government is fixing what was broken. We prioritise performance over profit,” she said.
The ultimate goal, the CM reaffirmed, is to convert 100% of Delhi’s public fleet to electric vehicles, a move that supports the city’s climate goals by reducing urban emissions and traffic-related pollution. The Devi buses are not just a step forward in design or technology—they represent a cultural, environmental, and civic shift. With political rhetoric aside, the buses underscore a deeper commitment to urban sustainability, inclusive transit, and Delhi’s evolution into a greener capital.
