CM lays foundation stone of Delhi’s first multi-level electric bus depot

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday laid the foundation stone of a state-of-the-art multi-level electric bus depot at Hari Nagar in West Delhi, calling it a “milestone in DTC’s history” and a big step in the Capital’s journey towards green mobility.

The new depot, spread over 7.4 lakh sq ft of built-up area and costing Rs 420 crore, will accommodate 384 electric buses, 81 advanced charging stations, 2 lakh sq ft of commercial spaces and facilities including a rooftop solar plant, sewage treatment and rainwater harvesting. Officials said the project would be completed within two years.

Addressing the gathering, CM Gupta said the facility would transform Delhi’s transport system by expanding the electric bus fleet from 3,000 to 6,000 in the coming year. “This project is not just a bus depot — it is the foundation of a greener, more efficient Delhi. Our government is committed to delivering modern working conditions for the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) staff and safe, comfortable journeys for commuters,” she said.

The CM also emphasised that the complex was being developed on a self-sustainable model, integrating malls, office space and parking facilities to generate revenue. Transport Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh, who was present, said the project would “redefine public transport in Delhi” and ensure last-mile connectivity. Cabinet Minister Ashish Sood congratulated the DTC workforce, saying the depot would make Delhi a frontrunner in electric mobility worldwide.

The event also took a political turn, as the CM targeted former CM and AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal. Referring to a video clip he posted alleging she had admitted to EVM hacking, Gupta said, “You seem more interested in watching my interviews and reels than focusing on Delhi’s real problems.”

She added, “You presented the words of the CM of a state in a distorted manner. You should be ashamed. You had been a CM for 11 years. You don’t have any work? I advise him to alleviate the suffering of people of Punjab, instead of watching my reels.”

She further accused the previous government of leaving the DTC in financial distress.