In August, the government posted the draft of the “Delhi Motor Vehicles Licensing of Aggregator (Premium Buses) Scheme, 2023” on its website, inviting public input.
Through this initiative, the city government aims to motivate the middle and upper-middle classes to transition to public transportation.
As per the scheme’s provisions, any license holder must ensure that no premium bus can be utilized or procured if its registration date exceeds three years from the date of the scheme’s notification.
The scheme further states that any new premium buses introduced into the system must adhere to the current emission standards, specifically BS-VI, and they must either run on air-conditioned CNG or electric power.
Starting from January 1, 2025, only electric buses will be permitted for induction under this scheme, and no CNG-operated buses, even if they comply with BS-VI standards, will be allowed for inclusion.
The scheme requires that any aggregator must implement measures to guarantee the safety and security of women passengers.
This includes providing a rapid response mechanism, such as a panic button, on their mobile and web-based applications.
This panic button should be operational at all times and have the capability for API-based integration with law enforcement agencies to swiftly address complaints.
It permits dynamic pricing provided that the base fare shall not be less than the peak fare of Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) air-conditioned buses.
