What's Happening?
The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) is transitioning to electric buses, which has put over 8,000 drivers at risk of losing their jobs. To address this, the Delhi government has mandated that all departments
hire drivers for official vehicles exclusively through the DTC. This move aims to utilize the skilled workforce and prevent redundancies. The DTC has started placing its drivers in other departments and promoting some to Assistant Traffic Inspectors. The transition to electric buses is part of a policy shift where the city will no longer procure CNG buses, opting instead for electric buses procured through a wet-lease model. This model involves drivers supplied by concessionaires, while the DTC provides conductors.
Why It's Important?
The transition to electric buses is significant as it reflects a broader shift towards sustainable transportation solutions. By utilizing DTC drivers in other departments, the government aims to prevent job losses and optimize the use of skilled labor. This move also highlights the financial strain faced by the DTC due to rising operational costs and limited revenue generation. The shift to electric buses is expected to reduce the city's carbon footprint and align with global environmental goals. However, it also poses challenges in terms of financial sustainability and workforce management.
What's Next?
The DTC has been directed to appoint a nodal officer to facilitate the hiring process and ensure smooth transitions. The transport commissioner will review the hiring process to ensure no drivers are left unemployed. The government is working on a policy to deploy contractual drivers under concessionaires engaged by the DTC. This policy aims to ensure that contractual drivers are hired by concessionaires, with payments made through the DTC.
