New Delhi: In a major step aimed at reducing air pollution and fuel consumption, the Delhi government has introduced a unique incentive scheme encouraging its employees to use public transport such as the Delhi Metro and DTC buses.
The initiative is part of efforts to reduce dependence on private vehicles, improve air quality, and promote sustainable urban mobility in the national capital.
Objective: Reduce Pollution and Fuel Consumption
The scheme has been launched by the Delhi government’s finance department through an official office memorandum.
Key objectives include:
- Reducing the number of private vehicles on roads
- Cutting fuel consumption
- Improving air quality in Delhi
- Promoting eco-friendly commuting habits
The government also emphasized alignment with national efforts to reduce petrol and diesel usage.
Read also: Delhi Launches Road Asset Management System (RAMS) to Modernise Roads, Reduce Potholes and Pollution
How the Incentive Scheme Will Work
Under the new system, government employees will receive financial benefits for using public transport.
Key Features of the Scheme:
- Employees opting in will receive a Common Mobility Card issued by DTC
- 25% of monthly transport allowance (excluding DA) will be credited to this card
- An additional 10% bonus incentive will be given for using public transport
- Remaining 75% of transport allowance and bonus will be credited with monthly salary
- Dearness Allowance (DA) remains unaffected
The scheme is designed to encourage consistent use of public transport while offering direct financial rewards.
Wide Coverage Across Government Departments
The incentive scheme will apply to a broad category of employees, including:
- All regular Delhi government employees
- Autonomous bodies
- Local bodies
- Government boards, corporations, and societies
This ensures that the initiative covers a large workforce across the administrative system.
Trial Phase for Six Months
The Delhi government has implemented the scheme on a trial basis for six months.
During this period, authorities will evaluate:
- Reduction in fuel consumption
- Employee participation and response
- Overall environmental impact
Based on the findings, the government will decide whether to continue and expand the scheme on a permanent basis.
The initiative marks a significant policy move by the Delhi government to promote sustainable commuting practices among employees. By combining financial incentives with environmental goals, the scheme aims to reduce pollution levels and encourage a shift towards public transportation in the capital.
Read also: Delhi to Add 2,800 Electric Buses Under PM E-DRIVE Scheme to Boost Green and Sustainable Mobility
