The Delhi government’s Transport Department has sent a proposal to Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL) for the immediate procurement of 3,330 additional electric buses to accelerate the city’s transition to clean public transport and curb air pollution.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said clean air and affordable, modern mobility are among the government’s top priorities. Following a high-level meeting with CESL, Delhi has proposed an enhanced allocation under Phase II of the PM E-DRIVE Scheme.

After reassessing operational needs, the Transport Department has sought 3,330 low-floor, air-conditioned electric buses—500 buses of 7 metres, 2,330 buses of 9 metres and 500 buses of 12 metres. The 7-metre buses will cater to narrow streets and last-mile connectivity, the 9-metre buses will serve smaller roads and feeder routes, while the 12-metre buses will operate on main and high-density corridors.

Gupta said the Centre and the Ministry of Heavy Industries have been requested to include these buses—over and above the already approved 2,800—under the subsidy framework. She added that the Delhi government is prepared to bear costs arising from any technical issues to avoid delays. The expanded fleet is expected to reduce private vehicle use, cut emissions and improve safety and comfort, particularly for women and senior citizens.

Delhi currently operates 5,336 government buses, including 3,535 electric buses. By March, the number of e-buses on city roads is expected to exceed 5,000. With 2,800 buses under Phase I and the proposed 3,330 under Phase II, the total fleet would rise to 13,760 buses. The PM E-DRIVE scheme has an outlay of Rs 109 billion for 2024–26 to promote electric mobility and cleaner air.