Delhi braces for odd-even formula; Gopal Rai promises more buses, higher Metro frequency

More buses, higher frequency of Metro services, a mobile app, real time responses on Twitter… Delhi Transport Minister Gopal Rai promised all these and more as he detailed the measures being taken by the state in order to minimise inconveniences for commuters once the odd-even formula is implemented in the city from 1 January 2016.

“We will deploy 3,000 additional buses that will serve 15-16 lakh people,” said Rai. “There will be special bus services for those who are going from Gurgaon and Noida to Delhi. We are working out the modalities. Metro frequency was 2,000 plus trips, now it’s going to be 3,000 plus trips, an increase of 33 percent.”

Rai also talked about the Poocho app that will help Delhiites with car pooling. “We are launching a new number: 9243007040. People who have smartphones can give a missed call at this number and they’ll get the link to download the app.” The app will also benefit those who do not have access to other alternate services like car pooling as it will connect them to autorickshaws, he said.

The minister also launched a CNG sticker with hologram features. The sticker will be available at CNG stations starting Tuesday from 6 am. However, they will not simply be distributed: officials will do a complete check of the car and only then will they paste the sticker on the windshield of the car in order to prevent misuse. The enforcement team has been equipped with one lakh electronic readers that will check the sticker periodically. Those caught misusing the sticker will be fined and prosecuted.

The Delhi government has also tied up with Twitter in order to make it easier for commuters to find the shortest route to their destination. If you tweet to the handle @TransportDelhi, which will be active from 31 December, with your origin and destination, you’ll get a reply in real time. Those who don’t wish to reveal their location publicly can follow the handle and direct message it.