New Delhi, Sept. 13 -- Delhi's public bus network is set for a technology overhaul, with the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) planning to introduce an artificial intelligence-driven system to monitor fleet operations, improve punctuality and streamline maintenance.

The move comes as the Delhi government works towards significantly expanding its public transport fleet. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta had recently set a target of taking the city's bus strength to 14,000 by 2028-29, along with a possible expansion of the number of bus depots to around 90.

At present, the DTC operates around 6,269 buses, including more than 4,500 electric buses, from 52 depots across Delhi. To prepare its management systems for the expanding fleet, the corporation has invited proposals to assess its existing Bus Management System (BMS) and develop an upgraded AI- and machine learning-based platform.

The proposed system is expected to bring several operational functions under one digital framework. It will manage the allocation and tracking of Electronic Ticketing Machines (ETMs), including their assignment to particular buses, drivers, conductors and duties. The system will also track their issuance, return and usage.

A key component will be integration with fare collection systems, allowing ticketing information to be synchronised and revenues reconciled digitally, reducing dependence on manual processes.

The upgraded platform will also be capable of responding to real-time changes in bus routes, including diversions or alterations ordered by traffic authorities.

For electric buses, the system is expected to use AI to optimise charging schedules and battery usage. Other proposed features include predictive maintenance, detection of operational irregularities, passenger-count monitoring and CCTV-based surveillance.

The technology will also analyse traffic and historical journey data to improve estimated arrival times, anticipate delays and assist in route, fleet and depot allocation. Crew scheduling is also expected to be brought under the system, officials said.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.