Delhi govt to launch 56 women-only electric bus services

New Delhi, Jul 15 (PTI) The Delhi government will roll out a dedicated network of 56 women-only electric bus services across the capital to improve the safety and accessibility of public transport for women, Transport Minister Pankaj Singh said on Wednesday. The network will comprise 56 dedicated electric bus services across 28 high-footfall corridors. "This includes 30 Ladies Special trips operating on 15 busy city routes and 26 University Ladies Special services covering 13 routes that connect major residential areas with Delhi University's North and South Campuses and other leading educational institutions," Singh said. The routes have been identified based on corridors witnessing the highest movement of women passengers. "The 30 Ladies Special services will run in both directions during office peak hours, between 7:52 am and 9 am and return services between 4:32 pm and 6:15 pm. These connect key employment centres, commercial districts, institutional hubs and Metro interchange stations," he added. The 26 University Ladies Special services are aligned with college schedules and will link residential areas such as Najafgarh, Rohini, Janakpuri, Mundka, Mayur Vihar, Kalkaji, Palla and Dhaula Kuan directly to Delhi University campuses and prominent colleges. "Each bus will have CCTV surveillance, panic buttons linked to the Operation Control Centre, disabled-friendly low-floor ramps, distinctive branding for easy identification, and bus marshals or female police personnel where required. Services will also be integrated with the Pink Smart Card for seamless, cashless and free travel for eligible women," the minister said. Singh said the initiative is a major step towards making Delhi's public transport more secure, accessible and empowering for women. All 56 buses will be fully electric, reinforcing the government's commitment to sustainable mobility. The initiative is also expected to significantly improve accessibility and safety for women students travelling during early morning and late evening hours. PTI SSM SSM MDO MDO