In a major move towards green mobility, the **Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC)** has decided to **open its electric buses for public and institutional rental**—just like its existing CNG-powered AC and non-AC buses. This change allows **government departments, private schools, law enforcement agencies**, and other organizations to hire electric buses on a contract basis.
### Expansion Beyond CNG Fleet
Until now, DTC’s rental services were limited to **CNG buses**, with clearly defined fare slabs. However, **electric buses were not part of the hire fleet** due to the absence of a rental framework. With the growing size of DTC’s electric fleet and the gradual phase-out of old CNG buses, the **DTC Board has officially approved a separate rental rate structure** for electric vehicles.
### New Rates to Boost Revenue
Speaking on the development, **Transport Minister Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh** said the aim is to make DTC a **revenue-surplus entity within a year**. The inclusion of electric buses in the rental program is expected to **boost income** and **cover operational costs**. DTC also plans to **expand electric bus usage** for **school transport, tourism, film shoots**, and **law enforcement support**.
### Rental Costs for Electric Buses
Under the new pricing model:
* The **operating cost** of an electric bus is estimated at **₹90.38 per km**
* The **rental rate** has been set at **₹110 per km**
* A **minimum charge of ₹7,700 per day** applies for up to **70 km of operation**
### Existing CNG Bus Rental Rates
* **CNG Non-AC Bus**: ₹60 per km, minimum ₹3,000 per day
* **CNG AC Bus**: ₹75 per km, minimum ₹4,500 per day
The **last fare revision for CNG buses was nearly a decade ago**, and the new move signals a shift toward **a cleaner and more economically viable public transport system**. As DTC continues to grow its electric bus fleet, this policy is expected to make eco-friendly travel more accessible for various sectors across the capital.
