Date:27/07/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/07/27/stories/2007072752110300.htm

New Delhi

Inspection of Blueline buses to continue

Staff Reporter

So that more buses return to the roads by next week

Re-introduction of the kilometre scheme in Blueline buses discussed
Talks on regularisation of unauthorised colonies

NEW DELHI: A meeting of the Delhi Cabinet called on Thursday to discuss re-introduction of the kilometre scheme in Blueline buses and regularisation of unauthorised colonies remained inconclusive on both the issues. However, it was decided that inspection of Blueline buses would continue this weekend so that more buses return to the roads by next week.

Both the issues were discussed at length at the meeting chaired by Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit.

On the issue of re-introducing the kilometre scheme both the pros and cons were discussed.

A major drawback of the scheme, which was introduced in the 1990s and then phased out after about five years, was that it led to massive losses.

The drivers did not stop the vehicles at bus shelters and false trips were shown on records. The Cabinet, therefore, decided not to rush with the matter.

The Commissioner (Transport) and Chairman-cum-Managing Director of the Delhi Transport Corporation have been asked to review the matter and put it up again for discussion.

Likewise, the Chief Secretary has been asked to look afresh into the issue of regularisation of unauthorised colonies. The Delhi High Court had struck down the regularisation without making adequate provisions for parking, water and electricity demands.

Since the Delhi Government now wants to play a bigger role in the scheme of things as it has the wherewithal to provide the necessary services, the issue was taken up at the meeting. But again a final decision could not be reached during the day.

The third item on the agenda was the Ganguly Committee report on the points system for admission in schools, but it could not be taken up for discussion.