CM flags off 400 electric buses under ‘DEVI’ initiative

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday flagged off 400 electric buses under the DEVI (Delhi Electric Vehicle Interconnector) scheme, marking a significant step forward in the city’s push for sustainable public transport. The buses were launched at the Kushak Nala Depot in Seva Nagar, in the presence of several Union and state ministers, including Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Union Minister of State for Road Transport Harsh Malhotra.

Calling the launch a “historic moment”, CM Gupta said the DEVI buses form part of a broader initiative to address last-mile connectivity and tackle air pollution in the national capital. “Delhi is set to receive around 2,080 more electric buses by the end of the year,” she announced, reiterating the government’s aim to fully electrify the public transport fleet.

The new low-floor buses come equipped with modern technology such as CCTV cameras, GPS tracking, panic buttons, MNVR systems and motorised ramps for differently-abled passengers. Designed for ease of access in congested urban areas where larger buses struggle, they feature a low boarding step height of just 40 cm to ensure accessibility for all passengers.

Gupta said vehicular emissions contribute nearly 45 per cent of Delhi’s air pollution and said the DEVI scheme is a direct way to tackle the problem. “Public transport is just one part of the solution,” she added, revealing a new EV policy with incentives for private vehicle owners would soon be introduced.

She also spoke of the cultural symbolism behind the name. “Delhi has always had the blessings of Maa Durga. In honour of the city’s strength and resilience, we have named these buses ‘DEVI’,” the Chief Minister said.

The government has allocated approximately Rs 9,000 crore to the Transport Department this year for expanding the city’s electric infrastructure. The funding would go towards establishing charging stations, upgrading depots and enhancing support for electric mobility. A heritage element is also being integrated into the DEVI initiative, with plans to preserve and modernise Delhi’s civic transport history.

Cabinet Minister Dr Pankaj Kumar Singh, said, “The DEVI buses will boost connectivity — from homes to metro stations, schools and hospitals. This is a step towards fulfilling the vision of a Viksit Delhi.”

Delhi