NEW DELHI: On Thursday, the NDMC announced a 50% discount on parking fees for electric vehicles and will begin shuttle bus services for employees from four residential areas starting May 15, aimed at promoting green transportation.
These decisions were made during a meeting led by NDMC Vice Chairman Kuljeet Singh Chahal at Palika Kendra, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for sustainable development and environmental protection amidst the ongoing crisis in West Asia affecting fuel supply.
Chahal stated that the New Delhi Municipal Council will implement a 50% parking fee rebate for electric vehicles starting Monday.
“In addition, NDMC will initiate shuttle bus services for employees from four residential areas, including Palika Awas in Sarojini Nagar, Palika Gram in Laxmibai Nagar, Amrit Kaal Niwas on Jor Bagh Road, and Bapu Dham Flats in Chanakyapuri,” he announced.
The buses will arrive at designated locations by 9 AM and depart for Palika Kendra at 9:30 AM. Evening departures from Palika Kendra will be at 5:30 PM, reaching residential areas by 6 PM, with a nodal officer assigned for each route.
Chahal mentioned this service will expand on Monday to cover 14 additional residential areas using 16 buses, including Palika Kunj, Mehar Chand Market; Palika Niwas and Multistorey Flats on Lodhi Road; and more.
All department heads and officers will utilize metro or other public transport every Monday, while employees are encouraged to engage in carpooling.
Officials conducting field inspections will use shared 16-seater vehicles, according to the statement.
The civic body is collaborating with the Delhi Traffic Police and Delhi Police to enhance e-rickshaw and e-auto services for officials and employees to improve last-mile connectivity, and NDMC plans to encourage cycling among its officials.
Currently, NDMC operates 51 e-bike stations and has around 500 bicycles available for use.
Discussions are also taking place with bar associations to promote carpooling and shared transport among legal professionals.
“To minimize unnecessary travel and enhance efficiency, we will prioritize online meetings and video conferencing, while all official foreign travel is suspended until further notice. Employees are also encouraged to avoid non-essential private trips abroad,” Chahal added.
Additionally, NDMC will not purchase any new petrol, diesel, or CNG vehicles over the next year.
A strong emphasis will also be placed on energy conservation in offices, with the electricity department ensuring regulated air-conditioning use.
NDMC will hold meetings with resident welfare and traders’ associations to promote sustainable living, responsible consumption, and environmental protection, alongside campaigns for healthy living and reduced oil usage in food.
The education department plans to start online classes after summer break and will conduct awareness programs for students and parents on digital education and sustainability.
Under this new framework, up to 33% of Group B and C employees in specific departments may work from home when necessary, with department heads overseeing duty rotations to maintain public services.
A special nodal officer will be appointed in each department to ensure these initiatives are effectively implemented.
