Delhi Cabinet considers 'kilometre scheme'

The Cabinet note says several modifications were required in the old 'KM' scheme, reports Amitabh Shukla.

The Delhi Cabinet on Thursday discussed the 'kilometre (KM)' scheme for Blueline buses but failed to come out with a policy. It constituted a committee headed by the Chief Secretary with Principal Secretary (Transport) as a member to formulate the modalities of the new scheme to rein in Blueline buses.

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The Cabinet note said several modifications were required in the old 'KM' scheme scrapped by the government earlier. Pointing out the merits of the scheme, the Cabinet note said it provides better service, better scheduling and management, eliminates unhealthy competition among DTC and private buses, ensures better connectivity through rerouting and better compliance of safety measures and permit conditions.

On the demerits of the scheme, the Cabinet note said the operator does not pick more passengers and there is scope to manipulate km traveled by DTC staff.

The new committee would decide on the feasibility of the scheme in the next 10 days and submit its report to the government. The Cabinet note also drew a list of malpractices indulged in by Blueline buses presently. These include illegal transfer of permits, profit becoming the sole motive for operating the service, bad maintenance and engagement of drivers without sufficient experience.