New Delhi:
About 900 state-of the-art buses were brought in to replace the killer Buleline fleet of the Capital two years ago. It promised to change the way Delhi travels. Now, it appears the deal comes with its share of smoke and fire.
In the last fortnight alone one bus caught fire and five others started emanating smoke. Because the security mechanics were effective, unlike the Blueline disasters, there were no casualties. But obviously there is cause for alarm.
Facing the music is the manufacturers, Tata Motors, which has been accused of poor maintenance of the fleet.
Commenting on the issue, Delhi Transport Minister Arvinder Singh Lovely said, ''We have imposed a penalty of Rs. 4 crore and if need be we will initiate criminal proceedings.''
For now the state government has stopped Rs 150 crore payments for another 300 buses that are due for delivery in March. This step has been taken till the flaw is taken care of.
The government has also urged passengers not to panic. Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dixit said, ''These are very minor issues which will soon be sorted. There is no need to worry."
Except that the government is running out of time. It has to put 3000 more buses by October next year when the Commonwealth Games begin.