The Delhi government on Tuesday said it has given its approval for modernisation of seven of the busiest bus terminals in the Capital to ensure “world-class transit experience” for commuters.
A government release stated that the Transport Department, which has already floated a tender for the modernisation of the Nehru Place Bus Terminal, would also float tenders for the Najafgarh and Azadpur bus terminals within a week, followed by tenders for four more terminals, expected to be released in February.
“Bus terminals in Delhi have been neglected for decades and the convenience and comfort of bus commuters often ignored. The present terminals do not incorporate basic public amenities such as waiting areas, water and toilet facilities, and pick-up and drop-off points. Also, the spaces are poorly lit and shelters are few and far between, which deter women, young and aged passengers and differently abled commuters from using the terminals,” Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot said.
“Bus commuters should get the same experience that airport and metro train commuters get. Only then will there be pride and universal adoption of public buses in Delhi,” he said.
Almost 40% of trips in Delhi were made through public buses, evidencing the fact that bus terminals were crucial nodes of interchange, the statement read.
The government stated that the present bus terminals suffered from “deficiencies” such as traffic disorder at entry and exit points, inaccessibility for para-transit services, and informal shops and kiosks along boundary walls adding to congestion.
As per its vision to remedy the situation, the government said it wanted to create bus stations where bills can be paid, families can wait during a long commute near locker rooms for luggage, and commuters can visit a Mohalla Clinic for a quick consultation, or have a drink at water ATMs.
These terminals, the government said, would also be designed with provisions for notification of bus arrival and departure times, using GPS, and smart navigation and way-finding equipment.
