What's Happening?
The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) is transitioning to electric buses, which has led to the potential redundancy of over 8,000 drivers. To address this, the Delhi government has directed all departments
to hire drivers for official use exclusively through the DTC. Departments must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the DTC before recruiting drivers. The DTC is placing its drivers in other departments and promoting some to Assistant Traffic Inspectors. The transition to electric buses is part of a policy shift, with new buses being procured through a wet-lease model, where drivers are supplied by concessionaires.
Why It's Important?
The transition to electric buses represents a significant shift in public transportation policy, aiming to reduce emissions and improve sustainability. However, it poses challenges in workforce management, as many drivers face potential redundancy. The government's directive to utilize DTC drivers for official vehicles helps mitigate job losses and ensures optimal use of skilled workforce. The financial strain on DTC due to rising operational costs and limited revenue generation highlights the need for strategic planning and resource allocation in public transportation.
What's Next?
The DTC will continue to assess the availability of suitable drivers within its pool and provide NOCs for departments seeking drivers. The transport commissioner will review the hiring process to ensure no drivers are left unemployed. The transition to electric buses will continue, with the DTC working on policies to deploy contractual drivers under concessionaires. The government may explore further measures to support the DTC financially and ensure the successful implementation of the electric bus fleet.
