Latest news with #RapidTransitSystem
Time of India
6 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Delhi Govt to transform DTC: Smart Cards, high-tech bus shelters and ISBT upgrades on agenda
The Delhi government has initiated a major overhaul of the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) to provide world-class public transport services to the citizens of the national capital. According to a release, under this initiative, smart travel cards will soon be introduced, bus routes are being restructured, interstate bus terminals (ISBTs) will be modernised, and bus queue shelters (BQSs) will be redesigned to be more comfortable and high-tech. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, while addressing a high-level review meeting of the Transport Department on Tuesday, asserted that with the guidance and support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the dream of equipping Delhi with world-class public transport will soon be realised. The meeting was attended by Transport Minister Dr Pankaj Singh, Chief Secretary Dharmendra, Transport Commissioner Niharika Rai, and other senior officials. CM Gupta stated that DTC, which is currently running at a loss of ₹60,000 crore due to past mismanagement, will be revitalised and transformed into a robust transport service. She further added that the number of both small (DEVI) and large buses is being increased, and the new routes are being strategically planned to enhance accessibility for commuters. "Our government envisions DTC as a symbol of excellent transport service in Delhi," the CM stated, as per the release. Delhi CM, while reviewing the city's transport systems, laid out key developments that will shape Delhi's public transport future. One of the major announcements was the introduction of a unified smart card system for all modes of public transport in Delhi . This card will enable seamless travel across DTC buses, Delhi Metro, and the upcoming Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS). The Chief Minister also announced a special Pink Card for women and transgender residents, which will allow them free travel in DTC buses. Discussions are currently underway with banks to ensure a smooth and foolproof rollout of these cards, aimed at making public transportation more accessible and hassle-free. CM Gupta also shared the current status of the DTC fleet, noting that Delhi operates 660 small electric buses, 1,800 large electric buses, and 1,800 CNG buses, with a total of 4,800 electric buses forming the city's robust EV fleet. However, she acknowledged that many of these buses still operate on outdated routes, limiting their effectiveness in serving the city's population. To address this, the government has collaborated with IIT Delhi to design a comprehensive new route plan. This plan aims to enhance bus connectivity in underserved areas and improve integration with Metro services. A pilot project will be initiated in Yamuna Vihar, following which the model will be implemented citywide, the release said. Another key area of focus is the modernisation of Bus Queue Shelters (BQS) across the capital. All BQS will be upgraded with real-time arrival displays, LED lighting, digital boards, solar power support, and weather-resistant designs. These upgrades will be executed through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Currently, out of the 4,627 shelters in Delhi, only 2,021 are functional. The new shelter designs are inspired by global standards and tailored to Delhi's local needs, the press release added. The Chief Minister also emphasised the need to transform Delhi's Inter-State Bus Terminals (ISBTs) into world-class facilities. Terminals like Kashmere Gate, Anand Vihar, and Sarai Kale Khan will be revamped to provide airport-like amenities, ensuring passenger comfort, safety, and accessibility. These terminals will be equipped with modern infrastructure and will serve as model hubs for intercity travel in India's capital. CM Rekha Gupta reiterated, "With the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and collaborative efforts between the Centre and Delhi Government, we are determined to give Delhi citizens a sustainable, green, and smart public transport experience."
India.com
6 days ago
- Politics
- India.com
Delhi Public Transport Set For Major Overhaul: Smart Cards, High-Tech Shelters, ISBT Upgrades On Agenda
The Delhi government has initiated a major overhaul of the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) to provide world-class public transport services to the citizens of the national capital. According to a release, under this initiative, smart travel cards will soon be introduced, bus routes are being restructured, interstate bus terminals (ISBTs) will be modernised, and bus queue shelters (BQSs) will be redesigned to be more comfortable and high-tech. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, while addressing a high-level review meeting of the Transport Department on Tuesday, asserted that with the guidance and support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the dream of equipping Delhi with world-class public transport will soon be realised. The meeting was attended by Transport Minister Dr Pankaj Singh, Chief Secretary Dharmendra, Transport Commissioner Niharika Rai, and other senior officials. CM Gupta stated that DTC, which is currently running at a loss of Rs 60,000 crore due to past mismanagement, will be revitalised and transformed into a robust transport service. She further added that the number of both small (DEVI) and large buses is being increased, and the new routes are being strategically planned to enhance accessibility for commuters. "Our government envisions DTC as a symbol of excellent transport service in Delhi," the CM stated, as per the release. Delhi CM, while reviewing the city's transport systems, laid out key developments that will shape Delhi's public transport future. One of the major announcements was the introduction of a unified smart card system for all modes of public transport in Delhi. This card will enable seamless travel across DTC buses, Delhi Metro, and the upcoming Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS). The Chief Minister also announced a special Pink Card for women and transgender residents, which will allow them free travel in DTC buses. Discussions are currently underway with banks to ensure a smooth and foolproof rollout of these cards, aimed at making public transportation more accessible and hassle-free. CM Gupta also shared the current status of the DTC fleet, noting that Delhi operates 660 small electric buses, 1,800 large electric buses, and 1,800 CNG buses, with a total of 4,800 electric buses forming the city's robust EV fleet. However, she acknowledged that many of these buses still operate on outdated routes, limiting their effectiveness in serving the city's population. To address this, the government has collaborated with IIT Delhi to design a comprehensive new route plan. This plan aims to enhance bus connectivity in underserved areas and improve integration with Metro services. A pilot project will be initiated in Yamuna Vihar, following which the model will be implemented citywide, the release said. Another key area of focus is the modernisation of Bus Queue Shelters (BQS) across the capital. All BQS will be upgraded with real-time arrival displays, LED lighting, digital boards, solar power support, and weather-resistant designs. These upgrades will be executed through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Currently, out of the 4,627 shelters in Delhi, only 2,021 are functional. The new shelter designs are inspired by global standards and tailored to Delhi's local needs, the press release added. The Chief Minister also emphasised the need to transform Delhi's Inter-State Bus Terminals (ISBTs) into world-class facilities. Terminals like Kashmere Gate, Anand Vihar, and Sarai Kale Khan will be revamped to provide airport-like amenities, ensuring passenger comfort, safety, and accessibility. These terminals will be equipped with modern infrastructure and will serve as model hubs for intercity travel in India's capital. CM Rekha Gupta reiterated, "With the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and collaborative efforts between the Centre and Delhi Government, we are determined to give Delhi citizens a sustainable, green, and smart public transport experience."
The Sun
12-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
ASEAN urged to boost integration amid global uncertainty by Vivian Balakrishnan
KUALA LUMPUR: ASEAN must intensify efforts to strengthen regional integration in response to geopolitical instability and external economic pressures, said Singapore Foreign Minister Dr Vivian Balakrishnan. Speaking on the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting (AMM), he emphasised the need to eliminate trade barriers and enhance competitiveness. 'Because that is under our control. That is a path of no regret, and I would say the urgency and the salience of doing it now, it is so much more obvious,' Balakrishnan told reporters. The transcript of his remarks was shared by Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). He highlighted that the meetings in Kuala Lumpur focused on boosting ASEAN's resilience through deeper internal integration and stronger partnerships. 'In a way, you can think of this as an attempt to increase resilience by increasing the stability of ASEAN's economic ties across the world,' he added. Balakrishnan noted the strong participation of external partners as a testament to ASEAN's influence. He also pointed to the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) and Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link as potential blueprints for cross-border collaboration. 'From an ASEAN perspective, this (JS-SEZ) also may have relevant lessons for how to do cross-border collaboration that provides competitive advantage by pooling complementary strengths,' he said. On the Thailand-Cambodia border tensions, Balakrishnan stressed the importance of discreet diplomacy. 'I am not in a position to reveal the sensitive nature of the discussions which went on here, but I would make this point. It calls for quiet, discreet, constructive, effective diplomacy,' he said. The dispute, which led to a fatal exchange of gunfire in May, remains a sensitive issue. Balakrishnan expressed hope for an amicable resolution, acknowledging the tragic loss of life. - Bernama
Straits Times
11-07-2025
- Business
- Straits Times
Asean must double down on economic integration to withstand external pressures: Vivian Balakrishnan
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said Asean's response to recent developments must be to press ahead with internal reforms and strengthen ties with external partners. KUALA LUMPUR – Asean must double down on economic integration so that it can better withstand growing global headwinds, including rising protectionism and geopolitical uncertainty, said Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan on July 11. Speaking to Singapore media after the 58th Asean Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Dr Balakrishnan said the grouping's response to recent developments, including new tariff announcements from the United States, must be to press ahead with internal reforms and strengthen ties with external partners. 'Remember, our overall vision ultimately is to make Asean a single production zone, a single investment zone. And that means bringing down barriers, not just tariff barriers but non-tariff barriers as well,' he said. Dr Balakrishnan noted that the overall tone of the week-long meetings that he had with Asean as well as its key partners was 'sober', shaped by multiple crises worldwide. He pointed to the wars going on in Europe and the Middle East, and highlighted how the United States tariff announcements had occurred in 'rapid fire'. US President Donald Trump had from July 8 started announcing levies of between 25 per cent and 40 per cent on eight of the 10 Asean nations, which are slated to kick into effect in August. Singapore and Vietnam, however, have yet to receive any formal notification from the White House. Dr Balakrishnan stressed that in talks with the US, he had always underlined that trade is strategic to Asean, and the flow of trade and investments is a key strategic focus for all governments in the region. In terms of how the grouping is responding to what is happening to global trade as a result of the US tariffs, Dr Balakrishnan said that the Asean ministers have decided that the grouping will have to coordinate both foreign affairs and trade and economic development far more closely at the Asean level. He said Asean will need to adjust how it operates, including how meetings are structured, to ensure that its foreign policy and economic agendas are better aligned. But the most effective way the region can respond is to double down on its own integration, stressed Dr Balakrishnan, as that is under Asean's control. He gave examples of how the grouping must make sure that it removes every tariff and non-tariff barrier, and optimises its competitive position . 'That's a path of no regret. And I would say the urgency and the salience of doing it now is so much more obvious,' he said. Dr Balakrishnan also touched on recent developments in cross-border infrastructure, noting that projects such as the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone and the upcoming Rapid Transit System link between Malaysia and Singapore could serve as models for wider regional cooperation. 'There are complementary strengths of both Johor and Singapore, and to the extent that we can bring these strengths together, we make ourselves more competitive,' he said. He added that people 'beyond' the two areas are observing the special economic zone project with interest. The minister added that the region is also exploring how trilateral cooperation between Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia could be scaled up, in line with the longstanding ''Sijori' concept – a reference to Singapore, Johor and the Riau Islands. The Sijori was established in 1994 between the three countries Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore to bolster economic links between them. 'We are also now looking for opportunities in which the three countries, Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia, can do more in a synergistic and complementary way,' he said. Singapore is pushing for greater connectivity within Asean in both figurative and literal terms, said Dr Balakrishnan. He cited the Asean Power Grid , which seeks to connect the region's electricity networks and support the transition to sustainable energy. The project has attracted strong interest from Asean's external partners, including those with experience in clean energy and infrastructure, he added. Other ongoing initiatives include the Asean Digital Economy Framework Agreement, which aims to enable seamless digital transactions, data flows and e-payments across borders. The agreement was introduced in 2023 to boost the growth of digital trade and services in the region. Studies suggest it could double the projected value of Asean's digital economy from US$1 trillion (S$1.3 trillion) to US$2 trillion by 2030. But digital expansion also brings risks, and Dr Balakrishnan acknowledged how scams have become a problem, noting that people as far away as the US and Europe have fallen prey to some of them. Some of these operations originate from within Asean and there is a collective commitment by the grouping to try to root out these activities and deal with the criminal syndicates behind them. Dr Balakrishnan also highlighted efforts to expand Asean's network of external economic ties, pointing out that free trade agreements with Australia and New Zealand have already been upgraded. Negotiations with China are near completion and work with South Korea is expected to start soon. These are efforts that Asean has made to expand its existing channels of trade and increase its resilience, which Dr Balakrishnan said was in line with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong's recent comments about the grouping. In a video message delivered on July 5 , Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong urged the grouping to be bolder. He said Asean must become a more seamless and competitive single market if it wants to stay relevant in a changing global economy. 'Prime Minister Wong's call for reform and that sense of urgency was very timely. People recognised that, and it gives an additional push to all these efforts at accelerating integration and expanding the network of ties with our Asean external partners,' said Dr Balakrishnan.
The Sun
03-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Jalan Ismail Sultan heading to Stulang closed nightly until July 16
JOHOR BAHRU: Jalan Ismail Sultan heading towards Stulang, will be fully closed to all vehicles nightly from tonight until July 16 to make way for construction works under the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link project. In a Facebook post, RTS Operations Pte Ltd (RTSO) said the closure will take place daily from 10pm to 5am, with construction expected to take seven hours each night. The affected stretch is after the traffic light junction near the Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) Complex and the R&F Mall area, close to GBW Hotel. 'To ease traffic flow, a contraflow will be activated periodically along Jalan Ismail Sultan (heading towards the city centre), allowing vehicles from the CIQ and R&F area travelling to Stulang to use the opposite lane as an alternative route,' the statement read. Motorists are advised to comply with traffic signboards and follow the instructions of flagmen on duty at the site during the closure. For further information, road users can refer to the diversion route map provided by the authorities via RTSO's official Facebook page.
