Delhi is set to take a major leap in clean transportation. Starting July 2025, the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) will begin operating electric inter-state buses, offering direct connectivity to 17 cities across North India. This new fleet, part of the PM e-Bus Sewa scheme, will mark a turning point for both public transport and environmental policy in the capital.
For millions of intercity commuters—students, working professionals, daily travelers—this will bring a cleaner, more modern and cost-effective alternative to existing diesel bus networks.
A First for Delhi’s Public Transport System
This is the first time DTC will run electric buses beyond Delhi’s borders. The buses are fully electric and built to handle longer routes with improved comfort, silent operation, and digital convenience.
A senior DTC official explained, “Our goal is to modernize intercity travel, make it greener, and offer a better experience than private operators—at an affordable cost.”
The initiative will also support Delhi’s broader commitment to reduce transport-related carbon emissions and promote electric mobility across NCR and beyond.
Where Will These Buses Go?
In the first rollout phase, DTC will connect Delhi to 17 cities across six states—Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
These include Agra, Jaipur, Karnal, Ambala, Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Haridwar, Dehradun, and Shimla. Route choices are based on passenger demand, travel volume, and readiness of support infrastructure like charging stations.
For daily commuters, students heading to university towns, and families traveling on pilgrimage or holiday, this will offer a new option that’s quieter, cleaner, and digitally enabled.
What to Expect from the New E-Buses
The buses will offer semi-sleeper seating, USB charging ports, real-time location tracking, and app-based ticket booking. The interiors are designed to offer comfort for journeys lasting 3 to 6 hours.
DTC has confirmed that passengers will be able to book tickets both online and offline. An official DTC portal will soon go live for this purpose, with physical bookings available at select ISBT counters. Integration with major ticketing platforms is also being explored.
The buses will operate with minimal noise, contributing to both air and sound pollution control. According to DTC, these buses are part of a long-term vision to replace diesel across all operational routes, wherever feasible.
Pricing, Booking, and Launch Timeline
Fares are expected to remain competitive, with initial estimates ranging from ₹300 to ₹900, depending on the distance and route. Passes and discounted rates for students, senior citizens, and government employees are under consideration.
The rollout will happen in phases. In July 2025, the first batch of 25 buses will start operations on high-traffic routes like Delhi–Agra, Delhi–Jaipur, and Delhi–Dehradun. The remaining 75 buses will be introduced by September 2025, covering all listed destinations.
Charging infrastructure is being set up in collaboration with REC Limited and respective state electricity boards, ensuring seamless operations across longer routes.
Why This Rollout Matters
This isn’t just an infrastructure upgrade—it’s a strategy shift in how India manages mobility, air quality, and cross-state coordination. Delhi’s intercity electric bus service is designed to deliver immediate civic benefits while aligning with India’s climate goals.
For passengers, the shift means fewer travel delays, more predictable travel times, better air inside the cabin, and fewer breakdowns compared to aging diesel fleets. It also signals growing support for digital-first, service-oriented public transport.
Beyond the capital, this rollout could serve as a model for other metros. Cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad are already in talks to replicate similar models as part of their clean air action plans.
Early Challenges and Long-Term Vision
While the project is promising, there are practical hurdles. Interstate permissions, toll exemptions, staff training, and ensuring charging availability at bus terminals are still being worked through. Public awareness campaigns will be necessary to promote adoption among travelers unfamiliar with EV transport or app-based booking.
Still, Delhi’s leadership in this space is being closely watched. The long-term vision includes integrating more buses, including sleeper models for overnight routes, and expanding to 30+ cities within the next three years.
By initiating this shift now, DTC is not only cutting emissions—it is rewriting what public intercity travel in India can look like.
FAQs
What is the DTC inter-state electric bus service?
It’s a new initiative by Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) to operate electric buses on inter-state routes connecting Delhi to 17 cities in North India, starting in July 2025.
Which cities will be covered in the first phase?
Delhi will connect to Agra, Jaipur, Karnal, Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Haridwar, Dehradun, Shimla, Ambala, Panipat, and more. The rollout will take place in phases.
When will the service begin?
The first phase begins in July 2025, with 25 buses on high-demand routes. The remaining buses will be added through September 2025.
What features will the electric buses offer?
The fleet will include semi-sleeper seats, USB charging ports, GPS tracking, digital ticket booking, and a quieter ride thanks to full electric operation.
How can passengers book these buses?
Bookings will be available through DTC’s official online portal, select ISBT counters, and potentially third-party platforms. App-based booking will support real-time tracking and digital payments.
What are the expected fare rates?
Fares are expected to range from ₹300 to ₹900 depending on the route, with plans to offer concessions for students, seniors, and public employees.
How is this different from existing intercity bus services?
This is the first government-run, fully electric inter-state bus service offering scheduled, app-enabled, and sustainable travel with modern comfort features.
Will charging stations be available on these routes?
Yes. Charging infrastructure is being installed along travel corridors in coordination with REC Limited and state electricity boards to ensure uninterrupted service.
Why is this service important for Delhi?
It’s a significant step toward reducing air pollution, promoting electric mobility, and offering a cleaner, more modern alternative to diesel intercity buses.