(THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA.COM)
Vinai Kumar Saxena, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi laid the foundation stone of India’s Largest electric bus depot at Vasant Vihar, Delhi on 13.08.2024 in the presence of Kailash Gahlot, Minister of Transport, Govt. of Delhi, Prashant Goyal, Principal Secretary/Commissioner of Transport, Government of Delhi,K.P.Mahadevaswamy, Chairman & Managing Director, NBCC, Ms. Shilpa Shinde, Managing Director, DTC and Saleem Ahmad, Director (Projects), NBCC. Other distinguished guests and officials from DTC and NBCC also witnessed the event.

The new depot, being constructed by NBCC at a cost of Rs. 409.94 Crore, will cover an area of approximately 7.50 lakh sq.ft and will be India’s first multilevel bus depot for electric buses. The facility will include one basement level for car parking and services and G+4 levels for bus parking, with additional bus parking on a terrace level covered by solar panels and polycarbonate roofing.

This state-of-the-art facility is designed to house 434 buses and represents a significant leap forward in the city’s commitment to sustainable urban infrastructure and public transportation. The project aims to be a 3 Star GRIHA rated project. The building shall be energy efficient and use solar energy for common area and exterior lighting. More than 85 nos. of EV charging points will be created for buses to create energy efficient and environment friendly public transport. Its water management strategy will be based on zero discharge for which a tertiary STP will be installed to ensure recycling of water for flushing, air- conditioning and horticulture.

This depot represents not only a significant functional asset but also underscores Delhi’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. It reflects the city’s dedication to a cleaner and greener future, balancing urban development with environmental stewardship.

Additional Development:
Alongside the Vasant Vihar Depot, NBCC (India) Ltd. is also advancing several other DTC projects, including facilities at Hari Nagar Colony, Hari Nagar Depot and Shadipur Colony, with a total value of approximately Rs. 1600 Crore. The Vasant Vihar Depot itself represents an investment of Rs. 409.94 Crore, highlighting the scale and importance of these developments.

Commitment to Sustainable Urban Growth:
The inauguration of this multi-level bus depot signifies more than just an infrastructure milestone; it embodies Delhi’s dedication to balancing modern urban living with environmental preservation. The facility’s thoughtful design and integration of advanced technologies position it as a model of progress and sustainability, setting a new standard for urban development worldwide.