Not happy with new buses,may go for imports: Govt

A senior DTC official stated that a recent tender floated for buses returned only one bidder. “There are only a few companies in India that make quality buses and we are not satisfied. So we have approached companies in other countries and if satisfied with the performance,we will float another tender process,” he said.

According to Transport Minister Ramakant Goswami,the government has begun testing a bus from a company based in Poland. “While no decision has been taken yet,we decided they must be tried out. If their performance is better and their rates more competitive,it is good for passengers and the government,” Goswami said.

He added that the DTC needed to replace its older fleet of around 1,700 buses as soon as possible.

Following a meeting with Transport department officials,Goswami stated that they were also considering the introduction of four-wheeler auto rickshaws in the national capital. “The autos,made by Tata,are covered on all sides and are considered safe and secure. We believe they would also bring down road accidents,” Goswami said. He added that the move would also decrease incidents of over-charging,not using meters,refusal to take passengers to their destinations.

The Transport department has been directed to study the technical details of four-wheeler autos manufactured and the feasibility running them in Delhi. “The new autos will also carry three passengers and will offer protection from heat and rain. I have asked the department to submit the report within two weeks so that a final decision can be taken,” Goswami said.